KENT COUNTY, Mich. - Wednesday, Oct. 3, the Kent County Courthouse formally introduced new therapy dogs to the public.
The animals will be used to comfort young victims or vulnerable adults who need to come to court. Twenty-two therapy dogs will be used in courtrooms in Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Township.
The dogs have gone through extensive training, including multiple visits to courtrooms and the witness box. Three Kent County courts will begin using support dogs.
Gov. Rick Snyder in June signed a bill allowing the use of courtroom support dogs. They can be used when a child, vulnerable adult and those with cognitive impairments are called to testify.
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