Therapy Dogs Bring Comfort and Compassion to the Truckee Court

Recently, the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe (HSTT) and the Truckee Branch of the Nevada County Superior Court launched a new Pet Therapy Program designed to provide comfort, reassurance, and emotional support to youth and families navigating stressful court proceedings.

The program brings specially trained and certified therapy dog teams into two areas of the court system, offering minor children a calming presence during particularly difficult moments.

The launch brings to life a long-standing vision championed by Judge Yvette Durant, a dedicated animal lover and longtime HSTT supporter who has advocated for pet therapy services at the Truckee court.

"Appearing in court can be incredibly stressful,” said Judge Durant. “Children may be worried about testifying as a witness in court proceedings, while families often feel frightened and uncertain about what to expect from the juvenile justice system. Therapy dogs offer comfort and emotional support during these tough moments.”

Judge Durant added, “I’ve seen parents and children enter the courtroom noticeably more at ease after spending time with a therapy dog. Their smiles and conversations about the dogs help ease anxiety and reinforce that juvenile court is different from adult court. In nearly 30 years working in this courthouse, bringing therapy dogs to Truckee is one of the most meaningful changes I’ve witnessed. I’m so grateful for this collaboration with HSTT." 

Through HSTT’s Pet-Assisted Therapy (PAT) program, two volunteer teams certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs are bringing that vision to life: Jeff and his dog, Lily, and Nina and her dog, Leo.

In the courtroom, a therapy dog can sit beside a young person who is required to testify, offering a reassuring presence. Visits are arranged as needed to ease the stress of taking the stand.

The program also supports juveniles and their families ahead of juvenile justice proceedings. Once or twice a month, a therapy dog team visits with youth and their loved ones before they enter the courtroom, offering a chance to pause, connect, and find a moment of calm.

“HSTT’s Pet-Assisted Therapy programs are built around partnerships with organizations throughout our community. By working together, we can bring the comfort of the human-animal bond into places where it can make a meaningful difference,” said Erin Ellis, community engagement director at HSTT. “Whether it’s helping a child build confidence through our reading program, bringing comfort and companionship to residents at the Tahoe Forest Hospital Extended Care Center, or supporting a young person facing a stressful court appearance, our goal is to help reduce anxiety, offer a peaceful pause, and remind people that they don’t have to navigate difficult experiences without support. ”

HSTT extends its gratitude to Judge Durant; Melody O’Shea, Nevada County District Attorney’s Victims Advocate; court staff; and volunteer teams Jeff and Lily and Nina and Leo for their dedication to bringing this program to life. 

To learn more about the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe and its programs supporting pets and people, visit www.hstt.org.

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Photos Courtesy of Court Leve Productions