‘Testifying in a court room is extremely traumatizing’: Mock trial preps volunteer dogs to help victims

PORTLAND, OR – Volunteers from DoveLewis Animal Hospital are enhancing courtroom experiences by introducing therapy dogs, a service provided by Kathy Wentworth for a decade.

The initiative, backed by the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, aims to support individuals in the court system, including victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Deputy District Attorney Chris Rothfus emphasized that therapy dogs can significantly reduce the stress of testifying, aiding victims in managing their emotions and communicating effectively.

Recently, a demonstration event showcased the process of involving therapy dogs during testimony.

The DoveLewis teams contributed over 4,000 volunteer hours in 2023 and continue to focus on assisting vulnerable individuals, helping them feel supported in a judgment-free environment.

Source: Kgw.com

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