Promoting justice through the use of courthouse dogs to provide emotional support for everyone in our criminal justice system
Jeeter, courthouse dog pioneer
Since 2003 courthouse dogs have provided comfort to sexually abused children while they undergo forensic interviews and testify in court. The dogs also assist drug court participants in their recovery, visit juveniles in detention facilities, greet jurors and lift the spirits of courthouse staff who often conduct their business in an adversarial setting.
Courthouse dogs assist individuals with physical, psychological, or emotional trauma due to criminal conduct; these dogs should be professionally trained assistance dogs from an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International. Each courthouse dog is handled by a criminal justice professional, such as a deputy prosecutor, a law enforcement officer, a victim advocate, or a forensic interviewer.
The use of courthouse dogs can help bring about a major change in how we meet the emotional needs of all involved in the criminal justice system. The dog’s calming presence creates a more humane and efficient system that enables judges, lawyers, and staff to accomplish their work in a more positive and constructive manner.
Sean Stephens and Jeeter at the beach
Jeeter
Service Dog and Courthouse Dog Pioneer
Sean Stephens’ beloved service dog Jeeter passed away on January 4, 2011. He was ten years old and during that time he was a wonderful companion for Sean and the inspiration for courthouse dogs. Even as a young dog he was an old soul, kind and comforting. He brought smiles to hundreds of people during his lifetime and left a legacy that has made our criminal justice system a more humane experience.
Jeeter and Sean were the inspiration for Courthouse Dogs.
Upcoming trainings
Tucson, AZ
January 25-26
Stafford, VA
February 21-22
Request the new training DVD for criminal justice professionals about the use of courthouse dogs.
This free video is made possible by the generous support of the
Seattle Police Department
and the
Seattle Police Foundation.
Please note that we can only mail this to individuals who are working in the field of criminal justice. Please include information about your position and agency when making this request.
National District Attorneys Association issues resolution on the use of courthouse dogs
Pet therapy dogs in the criminal justice system
Legal support for the use of dogs in the courtroom
Minimizing prejudice to the defendant when using a courthouse dog to support a witness
Recognize and respond to trauma stress reactions of testifying child witnesses
Addressing appellate issues on the use of dogs for witness support
Where are courthouse dogs being used?
Read what elected prosecutors across the United States are saying about courthouse dogs
Current news about courthouse dogs.
Please contact us with any questions or for additional information.