New Leash on Life USA is an innovative reentry and diversion organization in the greater Philadelphia region that facilitates fresh starts for justice-impacted individuals and at-risk dogs. Leveraging the power of the human-animal bond, our programs are based on animal-assisted therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed practices.

We work with local shelters, including ACCT Philly, to rescue the dogs at highest risk of euthanasia because of medical challenges, minor behavioral issues, breed prejudice, and overcrowding. Our rescue dogs have often experienced abandonment, abuse, neglect, and trauma – and our justice-impacted participants can often relate to that from their own life experiences. Participants have the opportunity to not only create a therapeutic relationship with a dog but also have the confidence-building experience of saving and training a dog who would have been euthanized. After completing our program, these dogs are adopted into forever loving homes in the community.

Our programs not only rescue at-risk dogs but also deliver intensive, individualized services to the justice-impacted participants. Workshops include life skills, career readiness, financial literacy, basic animal care, and dog training. We also provide graduates with paid internships in the community, public transportation passes, individual weekly meetings, support in securing permanent employment, and referrals to other resources as needed, such as substance use treatment. Our SVP of Programs, Rob Rosa, CRS, is an individual with lived experience and leads our team in creating a high level of trust and rapport with our participants.