It’s a proven fact that having inmates, even extremely violent criminals, care for a creature that is small and “helpless” has a positive impact on the criminals brain wiring. Where before they may have had little or even no regard for life, even their own, the animals foster a sense of empathy and responsibility. The inmate begins to consider the animals needs with every choice they make.
“I cant get into this fight cuse I’ll be put in solitary and my cat will miss me.”
“If I do some extra work in x area (laundry, kitchen, ect) I can earn credit for the store (many low security prisons have little general stores where they can buy things like cigarettes, chips, ect) and by Miss Molly that sweet catnip mouse.”
“Need to be on good behavior cuse when I get out I can give my cat a better life than this cell.”
And once out of prison, parolees have a reason to find legitimate work to get things their pet needs or get them special treats and toys. Often a parolee that just has to care for themselves will be able to justify either not getting something they themselves need or not working legitimately for those needs. When they do it for a pet, they often feel a real sense of accomplishment and believe their pet is proud of them for working hard.
Not to mention the effect animals have on depression and anxiety. Coming home to a pet that loves unconditionally after a hard day at work really makes it worth it.