Support dogs are calming witnesses and victims in Victorian court cases

EVERY dog has its day — and now comfort canines are helping victims have their day in court too, with a presence of support dogs proving to be a big difference in helping victims, and legal representatives, through proceedings.

EVERY dog has its day — and now comfort canines are helping victims have their day in court too.

The Office of Public Prosecutions has expanded its support dog program after a trial found it calmed victims and witnesses giving evidence.

The 12-week trial also found having the support dogs sped up trials as witnesses were able to give their evidence with fewer breaks.

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Solicitor for Public Prosecutions John Cain said having a dog in the office even helped OPP staff, who often dealt with confronting cases.

“One of the challenges we have in prosecuting serious crime is that we always run the risk of re-traumatising victims when they have to give evidence,” he said.

“The dogs sit with the witness, they provide support and what we’ve found that it is easier, less stressful, less traumatic for them.”

John Cain and victim support dog Coop. Picture: Jason Edwards

Victims and witnesses can opt to give evidence, with the help of support dog, Coop, from a remote facility at OPP offices.

The three-year-old labrador is Victoria’s only dedicated court support dog, but another is being trained.

The dogs are taught, over 18 months to two years, to recognise signs of distress or anxiety and provide comfort by laying on a witness’s feet, sitting next to them or resting a head on their lap.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula said witnesses were “in a better state” to give evidence with Coop by their side.

“As a consequence, they can give their evidence more efficiently,” he said.

“It means that the process can be done more quickly and it means that witnesses are in a better frame of mind.

“These are beautiful animals and they do help to make the process less stressful for witnesses.”

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