The Jackson County Prosecutor's Office is adding a new member to its team in the coming months-- a canine advocate.
The office joins dozens of other prosecutor's offices around the state with canine advocates, including Eaton County.
"The canine advocate or comfort dog will be very helpful to witnesses coming to court to testify, especially for children who are victims," said Prosecutor Jerry Jarzynka. "We have been researching canine advocates and comfort dogs since my first year in office. We actually had a visit from a dog and his trainer during a staff meeting in 2013. It can be a lengthy process to obtain such a highly trained animal and we are very excited to finally be getting a canine advocate," he said.
Dr. Sue Sayles of Brooklyn Road Veterinary Clinic has agreed to donate veterinary services for the canine advocate. Other costs will be covered by donations from local businesses and organizations.
The dog will come from the Leader Dogs for the Blind organization and will be trained. It is expected to arrive in about six months.
