Sister Pauline Quinn, O.P. (1942–2021) was far more than the founder of Prison Pet Partnership; she was a global visionary whose compassion sparked a movement that continues to reshape lives around the world. Her legacy is woven into every aspect of PPP’s mission, culture, and impact.

 

Sister Pauline’s early life was marked by profound trauma, adversity, and periods of homelessness. She understood what it meant to feel invisible, unheard, and without safety. Everything changed when she met a stray dog named Joni, whose unconditional love and companionship helped her rebuild her sense of trust, dignity, and purpose.

This bond became the foundation of her life’s work.

 

She dedicated herself to helping others; especially those whose voices were often overlooked; experience that same healing connection.

 

Sister Pauline believed wholeheartedly that:

 

• Healing is possible when someone believes in you.

• Animals offer a kind of unconditional acceptance that humans desperately need.

• People can change when given purpose, responsibility, and compassion.

• Second chances are not a privilege; they are a necessity for human dignity.

 

These beliefs fueled her mission to bring service-dog training into correctional settings, where incarcerated individuals could experience meaningful connection while contributing to something greater than themselves. With the collaboration of Dr. Leo Bustad, the Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington State University, and Tacoma Community College, she launched a model of rehabilitation that was entirely new—and remarkably effective.

 

Her groundbreaking idea did not remain contained within Washington State.

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Sister Pauline spent decades traveling the world, establishing and inspiring similar programs in:

 

• The United States

• Europe

• Asia

• The Middle East

• South America

 

Her work led to the creation of dozens of prison-based service-dog programs globally, forever changing how rehabilitation is understood and practiced.

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Today, Sister Pauline’s influence is felt in:

 

• The compassion-centered culture of the program

• The dedication to second chances

• The belief in the healing power of the human–animal bond

• The commitment to dignity, empathy, and restoration

• The global network of programs modeled after her work

 

Her life stands as proof that one person’s compassion can transform thousands of lives.

 

Every dog trained.

Every handler empowered.

Every service team matched.

Every second chance given—

all of it is part of Sister Pauline Quinn’s enduring legacy.

 

Prison Pet Partnership continues to honor her vision with gratitude, reverence, and a steadfast commitment to the transformative work she began.

 

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