McHenry County Circuit Court Announces Addition of Service and Comfort Dog

McHenry County Circuit Court has announced its newest four-legged employee, a comforting service dog, who officials say will foster an atmosphere of support and comfort.

The 22nd Judicial District Court said Tuesday afternoon that Honey the dog is its new employee at the Michael J. Sullivan Justice Center in Woodstock.

Honey, a Golden Retriever, was purchased from Sunset Goldens in Villa Park to help relieve stress and promote a calming environment within the court.

She will be training as a certified service animal with the Masonic Association of Service and Therapy Dogs (MAST).

Honey will be available in various offices, hallways and courtrooms throughout the courthouse to provide emotional support to members of the public, staff and attorneys.

“Honey is a welcome addition to our judicial family,” said Chief Justice Michael Chmiel.

“The concept came about a few years ago and, learning what was happening in other judicial circuits with the involvement of service dogs, the time seemed right to move forward with our new teammate,” Chmiel said.

This initiative reflects the growing trend of integrating mediation dogs into justice systems nationwide.

Court officials say the presence of a mediation dog is a “useful initiative 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 animals have therapeutic benefits for a variety of physical and psychological challenges and have positive effects on a wide range of psychological outcomes, including reducing anger, anxiety, depression and general distress.

Having a mediation dog in courtrooms has also proven useful in helping witnesses, especially children and trauma victims, feel more comfortable during difficult testimony, court officials said.

“While this is not a new idea, we believe it is of great benefit to everyone involved in the judicial process,” said Dan Wallis, administrator of the 22nd Judicial Circuit District Court.

“We are committed to making our courtrooms and our judicial center a supportive environment, and we believe Honey will have a significant positive impact. She already has. The courts are a stressful place, and no one wants to come to court, so this project is intended to make the judicial process a little better,” Willis said.