New Law Would Allow Therapy Dogs to Comfort Victims in Court - National Humane Education Society

February 6, 2020

One of the most stressful and terrifying experiences for a victim of a heinous crime is to have to testify against their perpetrator in court. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and Representative Mary Scanlon (D-PA) are hoping to alleviate some of that stress by introducing the Courthouse Dogs Act. This legislation would allow victims to be comforted by a therapy dog in a federal courtroom during a trial. Although eight states already allow therapy dogs in courtrooms, this law would allow them in any federal courtroom across the nation.

Therapy dogs bring joy to so many people in so many different ways—by visiting the sick in hospitals, visiting the elderly in nursing homes, or even meeting children in libraries. All the dogs want in return is the love and affection they get from all the people they meet. Therapy animals are a testament to how humans can benefit from having animals in our lives.

Take Action:       This bill has passed in the Senate and now awaits a vote in the House. Take a moment to contact your representatives and urge them to support the Courthouse Dogs Act!