Paws for Progress is a social enterprise based in central Scotland, which originated as a prison based rescue dog training programme. We now provide a range of fun, engaging, therapeutic & educational dog training programmes which appeal to people who are most disengaged and in need of support. All our services aim to benefit both the people and the dogs taking part. We provide programmes in prison settings & the community, working to improve the lives of people & dogs of all ages. Our focus on providing enjoyable and beneficial for both the people AND the dogs involved is key to our success.

Why the community needs us
We benefit the community by engaging people in positive and charitable activities with animals, enhancing the support that our students receive. Positive interactions with animals help to build confidence in personal abilities, develop social skills and positive relationships whilst providing a communication bridge to people who struggle to engage with services. Our programmes are mutually beneficial, providing training and skills for dogs and contributing to improving welfare.

Our impact on the community
Paws for Progress deliver the pioneering first prison-based rescue dog training programme in the UK, originating as a PhD project before becoming a Community Interest Company in 2014. We have worked with more than 879 people across 3 prisons and 15 community settings, helping more than 165 dogs from 13 dog rescue organisations.Our flagship project is our rescue dog training programme, and we also provide much needed services for children and young people in the community, and women in custody.