The McHenry County Circuit Court announced its newest four-legged employee has been officially certified as a comfort support dog following rigorous training.
The 22nd Judicial Circuit Court in September announced that Honey the canine was its newest employee at the Michael J. Sullivan Judicial Center in Woodstock.
Honey, a nine-month-old Golden Retriever, was purchased from Sunset Goldens in Villa Park to assist in alleviating stress and promoting a calming environment within the court.
She recently completed training as a certified service animal with the Masonic Association of Service and Therapy Dogs (M.A.S.T).
The circuit court announced last week that Honey had successfully completed her certification as a service therapy dog.
“Congratulations to Honey, and Dan Wallis for all of the hard work and training that went into Honey’s certification as a service/therapy dog. Honey has become a very special part of our 22nd Circuit Court family, and we’re very fortunate to have her here,” Chief Judge Michael Feetterer said.
Honey completed a rigorous 12-week obedience class and field training provided by Jay Reed, MAST’s Program Director and a retired paramedic.
Reed has worked with local police departments to help develop their own therapy and service dog programs, including Canine Oakley from the McHenry Police Department and Canine Louie from the McHenry County Department of Probation and Court Services.
Honey is available throughout various offices, hallways and courtrooms of the courthouse to provide emotional support to members of the public, employees and attorneys.
Court officials say that having a facility dog present is a “worthwhile endeavor to foster a more supportive and comforting atmosphere.”
Courthouses are often emotionally intense environments where individuals experience high levels of stress and anxiety.
Court officials say research suggests that animals have therapeutic benefits for a variety of physical and psychological challenges and have positive effects on a wide range of psychological outcomes, including reductions in anger, anxiety, depression and general distress.
The presence of a facility dog in courtrooms has also been shown to help witnesses, particularly children and victims of trauma, feel more at ease during difficult testimonies, court officials said.
“Since her arrival, Honey has become an integral part of our courthouse family. We’ve witnessed countless moments where her presence has turned stress into smiles for everyone from children, adults, attorneys, judges and court employees. Honey doesn’t just roam the halls; she connects with people, offering a gentle nudge, a calm sit, or even a hug at just the right moment,” said Dan Wallis, Trial Court Administrator for the 22nd Judicial Circuit and Honey’s primary handler.
“It’s truly heartening to see her in action, particularly with children, it can be powerfully emotional. I want to thank everyone who has helped make this project a success, including Jay Reed, Animal Hospital of Woodstock who donates veterinary care for Honey, and Pet Supply Plus in Crystal Lake who donates her food,” Wallis said.