Maine inmates help take care of abandoned horses

WARREN, Maine (AP) — Inmates and officials at the Bolduc Correctional Facility in Warren say a program that allows prisoners to take care of abandoned horses at a nearby farm works wonders for man and animal alike.

The animal therapy program is a joint venture between the prisons department and the state Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry.

Bolduc director Benjamin Beal tells WABI-TV the program teaches responsibility to men who have never had responsibility, and changes their attitude about life and about work.

Four inmates are currently involved.

An inmate named Chris says the program gives him something to do and keeps him out of trouble. He says he'd like to work with animals when he's released.

Inmate Eric Weston says being on the farm is way better than being behind bars.