Aron Attiwell

'In the Doghouse’ is deeply personal to me, inspired by my family’s connection to the prison system—one of my relatives worked in a correctional facility, and their stories stayed with me. Initially, I wrote from a correctional officer’s perspective, but discovering prison dog programs shifted my focus to an incarcerated man and his bond with a dog. This story explores healing, fatherhood, and redemption. Joel’s journey to reconnect with his daughter mirrors his rehabilitation alongside Lily, the assistance dog. It’s a hopeful story about transformation, showing how even in darkness, we can find connection and resilience.