Pitchess Detention Center could be host to a care facility for small animals after a motion from Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich during Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting.

Antonovich directed the Chief Executive Office, Sheriff’s Department and Department of Animal Care and Control to study the feasibility of establishing an animal care center on the grounds of the detention center.

The motion comes after the county Board of Supervisors approved a $450,000 study for developmental options on Honor Ranch in Castaic with references to the 2,620-acre Pitchess Detention Center lot.

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“The County has a unique opportunity to combine the benefits of an expanded capacity and care for animals with enhanced rehabilitation of inmates,” said Antonovich.  “Similar programs across the nation, such as the Prison Pet Partnership and Paws in Prison, have proven to have positive impacts on inmate rehabilitation.”

The report has been given a 30-day deadline until its findings appear before the board.

Programs like Paws in Prison give select inmates the ability to train rescued dogs in an attempt to make them more adoptable for the public, according to the Arkansas Department of Corrections’ website.

“Enhanced rehabilitation allows inmates to re-enter society with valuable skills so they can earn employment,” Antonovich said, “support their families, and establish productive lives, resulting in a reduction in recidivism.”