Easing Trauma & Inspiring Courage

Facility dogs undergo two years of intensive training with professional organizations that specialize in preparing dogs for therapeutic and courtroom settings. This training includes learning obedience, emotional regulation, and specific commands that help them provide comfort and stability to children in stressful situations.

Facility dogs provide comfort and emotional support in a variety of ways, including:

• Being present during forensic interviews to help children feel more at ease.
• Assisting in therapy sessions to create a calming environment.
• Providing reassurance during medical examinations.
• Accompanying children to court hearings, where their presence can alleviate anxiety and foster confidence.
• Offering a steady and calming presence to help children feel more secure during difficult moments.
• They also provide comfort for our staff and team throughout the day.

While both provide comfort and emotional support, there are key differences:

Facility dogs are highly trained to work in specific professional settings like child advocacy centers and courtrooms. They are partnered with trained professionals and provide support on an ongoing basis.

Therapy dogs are often private dogs owned by volunteers who visit hospitals, schools, or other community settings and may not have the same level of specialized training.

Both play vital roles, but facility dogs are specifically equipped to assist children in trauma-related settings.

Yes! Facility dogs are carefully matched to appointments where their presence can make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s petting the dog, holding their leash, or simply sitting close, these interactions can help children feel more comfortable, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of safety.

If your child is scheduled for an appointment at the Center and you think a facility dog could help, please let us know when you book your session. If appropriate, we’ll work to ensure one of our facility dogs is available to provide support.

Yes, facility dogs work on a structured schedule to ensure they have plenty of time to rest and recharge. Just like people, dogs need downtime to perform at their best. When not working, our dogs enjoy playtime, relaxation, and affection from their handlers and host families.

Our facility dogs’ health and well-being is our main priority! They receive regular veterinary checkups, nutritious food, and plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Their handlers also ensure they get love, rest, and enrichment activities to keep them healthy.

Just like any other employee, our facility dogs work scheduled hours and then go home to their host family. Host families ensure these hard-working dogs get love, rest, and enrichment activities to support their well-being.

Our facility dogs are usually working, but they sometimes make special appearances at events or community outreach programs. Keep an eye on our social media and website for opportunities to meet them.