Court Dog Program.
About the Court Dog Program.
Court Dogs have proven therapeutic benefits, as they mitigate stress and anxiety by promoting cortisol reduction and increased oxytocin and dopamine. Their presence enhances one’s mood and fosters a positive, inclusive and calm working environment. They are also a source of emotional support, social connection and are a protective factor against symptoms of trauma.
Engagement with Court Dogs can positively impact court users and staff through:
- compassion satisfaction, correlating positively with the ability to cope with trauma and stress;
- resilience; and
- the ability to grow and learn from difficult experiences; and reduced burn out.
The role of a Court Dog.
The dynamic role of a Court Dog is shaped by the dog’s individual skillset, preferences and the unique requirements of the workplace it serves. In various departments across courts and tribunals, a dog can play a pivotal role in offering support.
Here are some ways a Court Dog can support your staff:
- Offer a reassuring presence and comfort to court staff during times of high stress;
- Be a source of comfort for staff involved in protected disclosures, creating a soothing environment for discussions around criminal proceedings;
- Provide opportunities for staff to unwind in a relaxed environment through mindful walks and casual interactions outside the court;
- Participate in celebratory events to foster a positive and supportive workplace atmosphere;
- Help break down the barriers to engagement and interaction between staff during training days and events;
- Encourage staff to take breaks and prompt the design of designated chill-out spaces in the workplace; and
- Enhance meetings with cheerful interactions and casual check-ins with staff.
Here are some ways a Court Dog can support court users and victims of crime:
- Provide an additional layer of support for children waiting to give evidence.
- Accompany staff during court orientation visits;
- Offer comfort to victims of crime during moments of distress;
- Provide comfort and a welcome distraction in foyers, waiting rooms and jury selection;
- Be a welcoming presence to court users attending court on consecutive days; and
- Assist with remote witness proceedings and intermediary assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions.
FAQs
A carefully selected Court Dog is matched to the specific needs of your workplace and is placed in the guardianship of an employee or person directly connected to your workplace (Primary Carer).
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT relies on the generosity of our donors and supporters to fund the programs and services we provide. To assist with the associated costs of running our programs we request a monetary contribution.
There are fees associated with the Court Dog Program. More information will be provided upon submitting an expression of interest. We appreciate that each court and tribunal environment is unique and we are happy to discuss a fee structure that suits your needs.
Dogs used in the Therapy Dog Program are Labrador Retrievers, and Labrador/Golden Retriever mix. We do not offer small breed dogs.
Unfortunately, no. If you experience allergic reactions to dog hair, please be aware that Labradors and Labrador/Golden Retriever mixes shed a lot of hair, and this may irritate people with allergies to dog hair.
Apply for a Court Dog now.
Apply now.
Please note, this form is for Court Staff expressing interest in applying for a Court Dog for their location. If you are interested in volunteering as a Therapy Dog Handler, please visit and apply through the Canine Court Companion Program page.
