The majority of the time, therapy dogs are used to help alleviate people’s anxiety and fears. They are there to provide comfort and company during difficult moments. This is an accurate description of the therapy dogs that can be found in Oklahoma courtrooms.
A courthouse in Tulsa, Oklahoma has begun enlisting the help of therapy dogs to assist youngsters who have been victims of abuse or other crimes. The animals are there so that the children would have support when testifying in court. Oftentimes, this kind of situation can be traumatic for children and make it difficult for them to confront their abusers.
Therefore, the district attorney and other victim advocates decided to recruit the aid of our furry companions. They are there when youngsters are required to attend hearings. With them around, the kids will have someone by their side in the event that they experience fear or sadness, or any negative emotion.
These animals also provide them with a sense of security when they have to take the stand. It’s difficult enough to discuss the terrible things that have happened to them, and doing such a thing alone can be really terrifying for them. Having a therapy dog at their side has given them confidence because they feel safe in their presence.
With the assistance of these lovely and compassionate dogs, the youngsters are able to face their wrongdoers with less dread and worry. They are able to feel safe enough to disclose what has transpired.
These canines make a significant contribution to helping their case be heard and bringing the defendants to justice. Because of this, a number of courthouses around the United States employ the same therapeutic strategy in cases involving children. So far, it seems like the strategy really works as many children are able to go through their ordeals with the dogs around.
Source: Inside Edition