Courthouse Facility Dog
What is a courthouse facility dog?
Courthouse facility dogs are professionally trained animals that work across the country in prosecutor’s offices, child advocacy centers, and family courts. These dogs come from specially bred litters and are socialized to adapt to a wide range of environments, including public spaces, crowded restaurants, interaction with children of all ages, elevators, open stairways, cats, office workspaces, and public transportation. This extensive socialization from an early age result in dogs that remain calm and composed in public settings as adults.
The primary role of these dogs is to provide a calming presence for children during stressful legal proceedings. As legally neutral companions, they support vulnerable witnesses throughout the investigation and prosecution of crimes, making it easier for these individuals to share their experiences. Additionally, the dogs offer emotional support to participants involved in family court proceedings as well as in specialty and treatment courts.
Where did Polar train and how did he become a Courthouse Dog?
Polar was bred for his calm demeanor and strong work ethic by Canine Companions Inc. At eight weeks old, he began his journey at Duke University, where he participated in the Canine Cognition Program. Following that, he spent a year with his puppy raiser, who provided him with a safe home and taught him basic skills and socialization.
When Polar was a year and a half old, he returned to Canine Companions Inc. and successfully graduated from their accredited training program. Tammie McQueeney, a member of the Hero To A Child team, is Polar’s handler. Tammie underwent extensive training from Canine Companions to learn how to handle Polar in public and care for him throughout his life, both at work and at home.
To become certified as a facility dog team, Tammie and Polar needed to pass the ADI Public Access Test, which is the same test used for the public safety certification of service dogs. Tammie and Polar will also undergo recertification at regular intervals to ensure they continue to meet the training standards set by Canine Companions and to verify that they can safely and effectively work in public settings.
Where will Polar work?
Polar will begin supporting children in the child welfare system of Pasco and Pinellas Counties through a partnership with our local courthouses and the Child Advocacy Center. At the request of judges, staff from the Child Advocacy Center, and leadership from the Guardian ad Litem program, Polar will be present to assist children during some of their most challenging experiences. This includes courtroom testimony, forensic interviews, depositions, and medical exams. With his calming presence and unwavering affection, Polar will provide comfort and emotional support to the most vulnerable children when they need it the most.
Are there other Courthouse Dogs in FL?
Yes! Polar is the first courthouse facility dog serving the children and youth of the Pinellas and Pasco child welfare system. He is one of five dogs currently working in the state.
The other facility dogs are located at:
- Voices for Children in Tampa (2 dogs)
- Gulf Coast Children’s Advocacy Center in Panama City
- Kids House Wayne Densch Children’s Advocacy Center in Sanford.
How do I request Polar for a case?
To request Polar’s services for a child in care, please send an email to his handler, Tammie McQueeney, at TammieM@herotoachild.org. Include the date, time, and any relevant details regarding the case. We will make every effort to accommodate your request and ensure that Polar is available when he is needed most.