Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs Partners with the Naples Police Department

Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs Partners with the Naples Police Department to Launch Children’s Courtroom Assistance Program

Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs, a Naples-based non-profit organization that provides no cost, highly skilled assistance dogs to combat-wounded veterans, first responders and children with life-changing disabilities, is proud to announce a new partnership with the Naples Police Department to launch a Children’s Courtroom Assistance Program.

This new initiative will serve the 20th Judicial Circuit of Florida to provide compassionate, trauma informed emotional support to children navigating court related proceedings.

This collaboration brings together Golden PAWS’ nationally recognized Crisis Care Canine™ program and the trusted presence of the Naples Police Department, anchored by Crisis Care K-9™ Max and his handler, Corporal Jeff Perry, to create a supportive, calming bridge between law enforcement, the courts, and the children they serve.

Through the presence of Golden PAWS Crisis Care K-9s™, this program helps reduce anxiety, fear, and emotional distress during what can be an overwhelming experience, especially for children facing the justice system for the first time.

“No child should feel alone or afraid in the courtroom,” said Jeannie Bates, Founder and CEO of Golden PAWS. “With the calming presence of our Crisis Care K-9s™ and our partnership with the Naples Police Department, this program brings comfort, stability and reassurance when children need it most — helping them feel safe, supported, and strong enough to be heard.”

Golden PAWS is one of only two organizations approved to participate in the 20th Judicial Circuit’s Therapy and Facility Dog Program, reflecting the high standards of training, professionalism and care upheld by its teams. The Facility Dog Program was formally established in July 2018 by the Chief Judge of the 20th Judicial Circuit, recognizing the importance of incorporating trauma-informed emotional support into the justice system while maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings.

The Children’s Courtroom Assistance Program builds upon this foundation by bringing comfort and calm directly to those who need it most. The program provides support to children under the age of 18 who are victims or witnesses; individuals with intellectual disabilities; and victims or witnesses of sensitive or traumatic crimes

How the Program Works
• Golden PAWS Crisis Care Canine™ teams may be present both inside and outside the courtroom, offering calm companionship while individuals wait to testify or participate in proceedings.
• Teams consist of court-approved Golden PAWS Crisis Care K-9s™, trained specifically for high-stress, trauma-informed environments.
• Dogs provide quiet, nonjudgmental comfort, helping participants regulate emotions, feel grounded, and face difficult moments with added support.

At the heart of this program is Crisis Care K-9™ Max and his handler, Corporal Jeff Perry of the Naples Police Department, who will serve as the primary team supporting this initiative. In his role, Corporal Perry represents a trusted and familiar presence for children and families navigating the local justice system. Paired with Max’s intuitive, calming support, this team works directly within courtroom environments to help children feel safe, grounded and supported during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, creating a more humane, trauma-informed court experience.

“We are grateful to Golden PAWS for our incredible partnership and for the opportunity to be part of the new Golden PAWS Children’s Courtroom Assistance Program,” said Naples Police Chief Ciro Dominguez. “This program is truly a noble cause, and we are proud to help bring comfort, support and calm to children during a difficult time.”

Working in close collaboration with judges, court staff and victim advocates, Perry and Max help foster an environment where children feel less fearful and more empowered to share their voices.

By offering emotional support at critical moments, the Children’s Courtroom Assistance Program reduces stress and anxiety for children; supports trauma-informed justice practices; helps individuals feel safe, supported and empowered; and ensures no child has to face the courtroom alone. At its core, the program brings comfort, dignity and humanity into the justice process – using the quiet power of a dog’s presence to help young voices feel strong enough to be heard.

For additional information about Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs and its mission to provide life-changing service dogs at no cost, visit www.GoldenPAWS.org or call 239-775-1660.