Pono, a black lab, is a courthouse dog. She is a 3 year old black lab and has been specially trained by Hawaii Canines for Independence. She will be the first courthouse dog in Honolulu, HI. She is trained to "help victims and witnesses - especially traumatized children - navigate their way through the criminal justice system." (From the full article in the Star Advertiser - Honolulu, HI.)
Apparently, this is becoming a more common sight - to see a dog with someone in a court room. These dogs have been found to help people feel more comfortable, less nervous, and they even help people (children especially) talk about their experiences. Children especially seem more comfortable telling dogs their stories than people (in cases of abuse especially.)
"A dog can make a particularly stressful situation less so," says deputy prosecutor Scott Spalina. "Anything that anybody can do -- whether it's prosecutors or defense attorneys -- to make court less stressful, especially for special victims, we're all in favor of that."
What do you think about these courthouse dogs? I had not heard of this, but I really like the idea. I can imagine, especially for a kid, that having a dog to pet, talk to, etc. might really help if you're in a stressful court situation. I have been to court one time (I had to testify in a shoplifting case. I caught the girl shoplifting...) It was terrifying! I would have loved to have a dog like Pono nearby! (photo of Pono by Craig T. Kojima, StarAdvertiser)
--Tammy
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Wow! I think that is an incredible idea. Kids respond so well to pets and adults and kids alike feel more relaxed when there is a per around. Bravo!
Posted by: Angie, Catladyland | December 05, 2010 at 12:41 PM