Courthouse Dogs Are Bringing Compassion To Victims Testifying In Court
If you thought giving a speech in high school was difficult, you're not alone. Public speaking is a common fear for many. However, there is a situation that can be even more daunting. In numerous countries, defendants have the right to confront their accusers, which means that victims seeking justice often find themselves in a courtroom, reliving their traumatic experiences. On top of recounting their ordeals, they may also face intense questioning from the defendant's attorney, making the entire process nearly as traumatic as the original event for some victims.
In an act of empathy and compassion, Ellen O’Neill Stephens and Celeste Walsen discovered a solution through Courthouse Dogs: dogs in the courtroom to comfort testifying victims. As noted by Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher, “The presence of a comforting figure can significantly reduce anxiety and stress, making it easier for individuals to share their experiences.” His insights can be found on his professional website, gottman.com. The pair's non-profit organization, founded in 2004, dedicates nearly two years to specifically training dogs for these crucial roles. Today, Courthouse Dogs operates in 28 states with 87 dogs, primarily Labradors and Golden Retrievers. The compassion evident in these animals' eyes is palpable as they help victims navigate their challenging times.
1. Friendship comes in many forms.
“We are a two person/one dog non-profit organization.” -Co-founder Ellen O’Neil
2. Making the stress bearable.
Gentle pats, hugs, and comforting glances. That's what these dogs are here for.
3. "Right now we are training at the San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office."
“When a person is reliving a traumatic event, they experience physiological reactions similar to what they had when the event was taking place.”
4. Timing.
The program is not without its bumps in the road: “It can take up to two years to implement a courthouse facility dog program because there are so many political stakeholders involved in agreeing to open up their doors to the dogs.”
5. Compassion
Despite the uphill battle, the founders remain vigilant: “These dogs should be available to any vulnerable witness that would have difficulty talking about what happened.”
6. Waiting
“It also takes some time on the waiting list of an assistance dog organization to acquire the dog.”
7. The problem with waiting...
“That could be an adult rape victim or family member who’s child has been murdered and have to testify in court.”
8. “However, these dogs are well worth the wait.”
“This adversarial system [of testifying in front of your attacker] is brutal.”
9. Why it Works
“We count on dogs to tell us when there’s a bad guy around. [W]hen we’re in the presence of a relaxed dog, it makes us feel that we’re in a safe place. “[This] can lower our blood pressure and reduce anxiety."
10. Compassion in the justice system.
“I love being a deputy prosecutor but my efforts to make the legal system more humane by advocating for these dogs to help people through this process is much more gratifying.”
“I used to think… I was supposed to make the witnesses squirm. But now I’m telling judges, that technique doesn’t work.”
Everyone needs a new haircut now and again, even our furry friends. Have a look at these before and after photos of doggos getting a make-over.
Share this article:
