Children who have been abused or neglected now have access to a new companion to help them deal with court related anxiety. Matilda, the first Canine Companions for Independence facility dog in Kentucky, was introduced Thursday morning in downtown Lexington.
The yellow Labrador can help alleviate stress and provide comfort for children affiliated with Court Appointed Special Advocates. Melynda Milburn Jamison is CASA of Lexington director. "It’s been very interesting because as soon as she sees children, she’s very calm most of the time, but that tail begins to wag, as soon as a child enters the room,” said Milburn Jamison.
Matilda is attending court, home visits, family team meetings, hearings, and any situation where she can help to relieve stress. Handler Liz Noffsinger says the dog has been linked up with about 20 children thus far. “I mean we work with children who have experienced abhorrent abuse and all they want is some unconditional love and something to pet, something calm, something sweet, and that’s what she is. She’s a calm, sweet being that can allow them just the ability to be their selves,” noted Noffsinger
CASA uses trained volunteers to represent child abuse and neglect victims within family court systems in Fayette, Bourbon, and Woodford Counties.
