Johnson County Department of Corrections is proud to welcome Mater, its newly certified therapy dog, to the department. Mater joined the department after nearly two years of planning and coordination with CARES Incorporated, a Kansas organization that specializes in therapy dog training. 

Mater and his handler, Juvenile Services Deputy Director Jodi Taylor, successfully completed the Public Access Test and skills certification under Assistance Dogs International standards in June. 

Mater joined JCDOC through CARES’ long-standing partnerships with six correctional facilities. Inmates at these facilities raise and train therapy dogs through a structured vocational program.  Their commitment helps dogs like Mater develop the steady temperament, social awareness and confidence needed to work well in public service settings. 

An unrestricted grant from the University of Notre Dame allowed the department to welcome Mater, and will support his future needs without using county tax dollars. 

While Mater is based at the Youth and Family Services Center, he regularly visits all JCDOC locations as a department-wide resource. His presence is intended to support emotional regulation, reduce stress and anxiety, enhance client engagement and contribute to staff wellness. Mater has already created moments of calm and connection with youth in the Juvenile Detention Center. He even attended the recent Community Connections event on July 25, where he enjoyed time with the youth and their families. 

 “Mater has added something to our work that is difficult to measure and invaluable: the ability to bring comfort, connection and joy to both clients and staff,” Taylor said. 

As Mater becomes part of daily life in the JCDOC facilities, he follows familiar routines from his training that help him stay comfortable and focused while he works. He responds to consistent guidance, enjoys positive praise and has been trained to remain attentive in public environments. These habits help him support both clients and staff safely and effectively. 

Mater may be only a year old, but he has already shown a gentle temperament, strong promise through his training and an eagerness to connect with the people around him. His calm and engaging nature has quickly become a bright spot in the department, creating positive moments for clients, their families and staff. JCDOC is excited for all the ways he will continue to strengthen connections and provide comfort and support across programs and facilities in the years ahead.