The dog is very unusual looking, is enormous, and is very soft and easy to pet. Most children, especially toddlers, love the dog. Clients are asked about fears or allergies prior to bringing in the dog whenever possible. A lint brush is now available for all. One of the nicest and most unexpected results of bringing in the dog is the shift in the attitude of the courthouse.
Parents often stop scolding their children to point out the dog.
Anita Stuckey is the ADR Coordinator for the 4th Judicial District in El Paso County, Colorado. This article appeared in the American Humane Association's magazine, Protecting Children , Volume 15, Number 2, 1999.