For a very long time, people who went to prison had no opportunities to better themselves. As they put it, guards would lock them away in small cages to rot and die. Recognizing the need for rehabilitation, something that would give inmates a sense of purpose, various organizations created unique programs.

One of these allowed prisoners to train dogs that would go on to provide a much-needed service to someone on the outside. Not only were the inmates doing something good for themselves but also for civilians. A well-trained service dog can completely change an individual’s life.

That’s what happened to a disabled veteran.

Although dogs are naturally protective and loyal, it takes a lot of time and money to train them to work in the service field. That’s when the idea came up…why not teach inmates how to train them. It would help with prisoner rehabilitation and give someone in need the opportunity to live a more independent life.

One veteran needed significant help after returning home from war.

As a war veteran who served in Iraq, Bill Campbell came home much differently than when he first enlisted in the military. While serving his country, he suffered a traumatic concussive brain injury, leaving him 100 percent disabled. Concerned that Bill would struggle in life, his family decided to get him a service dog.

Pax to the rescue.

Bill found out he would be receiving a golden Labrador by the name of Pax. But he’s not just any dog. Pax is a service dog that’s fully trained to help people with PTSD. For Bill, that meant having the emotional support he needed. Instead of trying to cope, Pax would give him unconditional strength, encouragement, and love.

Bill wanted to thank the inmate who trained Pax.

Come to find out, her name was Lauri. She resided at the Bedford Hills Women Correctional Facility. So, Bill made the decision to visit the prison so he could meet her in person and thank her for training such an incredible dog.

Upon arrival, Pax sensed something familiar.

Most people know that dogs have a keen sense of memory. This was proven true on the day when Bill brought Pax to meet Lauri. Once inside the prison grounds, Pax immediately became alert and began wagging his tail. His entire demeanor changed. Bill could tell he was excited.

Then something truly remarkable happened.

Lauri was a good distance away up on a hill. But as soon as Pax saw her, he bolted, running to her as fast as his legs would go. It was apparent the two of them had shared a special bond during the training period. There was no question in Bill’s mind…Pax knew who Lauri was and he was beyond thrilled to reunite with her.

This dog brought healing to two people.

Following their initial meeting, Lauri showed Bill the area where inmates train future service dogs. He shared with her just how important Pax had been and continues to be to him and his healing.

Lauri was also grateful, saying, “I knew when they told me he was going into PTSD training, he was going to make somebody feel the sense of freedom that he gave me in a place where I was supposed to be everything but (freedom).” Bill and Lauri had a great conversation but also shared a lot of tears…of happiness.

Watch the emotional video below.

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Source: Animal Channel, YouTube