Therapy dogs now Sutherland Local Court
EMOTIONAL support dogs have reported for duty at a Sydney court today as part of a program to reduce stress and anxiety for vulnerable people.
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EMOTIONAL support dogs have reported for duty at Sutherland Local Court today as part of a program to reduce stress and anxiety for vulnerable people.
Three loveable Labradors Ernie, Loma and Sassy will attend court on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays to comfort those doing it tough.
Attorney-General and Cronulla state MP Mark Speakman said the pilot program at Manly Courthouse received wholehearted support from victims of crime, lawyers, court staff and police.
“They said they felt more relaxed after patting and chatting to the dogs,” Mr Speakman said.
The dogs, all between 11 and 15 months old, were trained by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
Their four-legged canine colleagues will also patrol Burwood, Campbelltown and Gosford Courts in the foyers, waiting rooms, safe rooms and witness rooms as required.
Miranda state MP Eleni Petinos said the courthouse was often a busy and stressful environment.
“The sight of floppy ears and wagging tails will be a welcome distraction for court users with a lot on their minds,” Ms Petinos said.
Heathcote state MP Lee Evans said the dogs were specially selected for the Canine Court Companion Program because of their gentle and happy nature.
“Not only are these Labrador-able therapy dogs special, but so too are the dedicated and passionate volunteers who bring them to court each week,” Mr Evans said.
Holsworthy state MP Melanie Gibbons said she was excited to see the therapy dogs get to work with vulnerable victims and witnesses.
“As a dog-lover myself, I know just how much having a furry friend around can lift a person’s mood,” Ms Gibbons said.
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is best known for providing Guide Dogs and other mobility aids to
people with sight loss.
The organisation has been expanding its Pets as Therapy program for more than 30 years.