Testifying in court can be overwhelming, especially for children and vulnerable adults in abuse or divorce cases.
Therapy dogs are changing that for many at the Kent County Courthouse, helping witnesses relieve stress, think clearly, and provide accurate testimony.
“The kids are no longer sitting in the corner, crying, clammed up, not wanting to talk.”
Judge Kathleen Feeney helped create the program in 2017 with , West Michigan Therapy Dogs (WMTD).
Its success led to laws officially permitting support dogs in Michigan courtrooms assisting minors and developmentally delayed individuals.
Some witnesses even testify with a dog on their laps or at their feet, speaking directly to the animal.
“They don’t have to look at the person who allegedly hurt them sitting a few feet or yards away. They can tell the dog the entire story but at least they’re answering the questions.”
West Michigan Therapy Dogs is celebrating its 25th anniversary with high-level honors from both the Governor’s office and the Michigan Supreme Court, recognizing its 100 programs across five counties.
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