“The Canine Court Companion Program has received overwhelming support and I’m pleased victims of crime, lawyers and police will be among those who continue to enjoy the benefits of pet therapy,” Mr Speakman said.
The NSW Government will continue to fund Guide Dogs NSW/ACT to keep the service operating in 10 locations in metropolitan and regional NSW until July 2020.
The NSW Government will continue to fund Guide Dogs NSW/ACT to keep the service operating in 10 locations in metropolitan and regional NSW until July 2020.
The dogs attend Gosford Courthouse four days a week, patrolling foyers, waiting rooms, safe rooms and witness rooms.
“The specially-trained Labradors have won hearts at Gosford Courthouse and provided significant comfort to people feeling anxious or overwhelmed,” Mr Martin said.
“Victims and witnesses have reported feeling calmer and more focused after spending time with the placid pooches, making it easier for them to give evidence.”
“Victims and witnesses have reported feeling calmer and more focused after spending time with the placid pooches, making it easier for them to give evidence.”
Over the past year, the NSW Government has gradually introduced the Canine Court Companion program in partnership with Guide Dogs NSW/Act at courts in Burwood, Campbelltown, Gosford, Goulburn, Lismore, Nowra, Orange, Sutherland and Wagga Wagga. The program also continues to operate at Manly, where court therapy dogs were first trailed in 2017.
“Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is excited the NSW Government has extended this important partnership, with our therapy dogs and volunteers looking forward to providing comfort and companionship to hundreds more courts users,” Dale Cleaver, CEO of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT said.
