"Well, these dogs are like our little emotional support animals," says inmate Donyella Lewis, "We are just so honored and happy just to have them."

The Sequatchie County Jail holds around 100 inmates. There are programs set in place to help inmates get back on their feet once they are released. The facility offers occupational courses on tablets. Staff also say faith-based classes are offered.

However, the sheriff did feel like something was missing from their facility's current programs.

Since the county does not have an animal shelter, Sheriff Bill Phillips had an idea that would help both the inmates and the stray dogs in the area.

"The COs play with the dogs and the COs get to do their shift with inmates that are in a different mood," says Phillips, "so it is a win-win as far as I'

See Full Page