Vulnerable witnesses and victims will have a new four-legged friend, Zeb, to help put them at ease as they make their way through the criminal justice system.

Zeb, a two-year-old Labrador, is the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (DPP) new canine court companion.

The specially-trained pooch will offer canine comfort to those in need, especially children who may become anxious or distressed in their encounters with the criminal justice system.  

Zeb will assist victims and witnesses of crime feel supported and calm and help them engage with the DPP.

He’s the second dog to take on the role after the sad passing of South Australia’s inaugural canine court companion, Zero, in late January this year.

Zero helped many of the more than 300 child and adolescent victims and witnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system each year, having started his paw patrol in March 2019.

Like his trailblazing predecessor, Zeb is being trained by Guide Dogs SA/NT in a joint initiative with the DPP. The program started in late 2018.

Zeb is now a few months into his on-the-job training, which includes becoming comfortable with his working environment.

The DPP doggo currently spends most days in the office, but it’s hoped Zeb will be ready for in-courtroom hearings by the end of the year.

Quotes

Attributable to Kyam Maher

Many South Australians were broken-hearted by the sudden and untimely death of Zero earlier this year, our inaugural canine court companion.

His legacy will continue though, with Zeb now taking his lead in providing this support to witnesses or victims.

Zeb’s calming presence will assist vulnerable victims to manage their anxiety levels, and support rapport-building.

It’s hoped with further training conducted by qualified staff and supported by the expertise of Guide Dogs SA/NT, Zeb will progress to providing support to children and other vulnerable witnesses during court hearings.

Attributable to Aaron Chia, Guide Dogs SA/NT Chief Executive

Zeb has a very relaxed demeanour and will be a calming influence for children and others who need support when participating in the South Australian criminal justice system.

Meeting with new adults in an unfamiliar environment can be daunting and going through formal processes can be stressful for children. Having Zeb on hand to pat, sit beside or just as a calming presence will make a significant difference to many.

At Guide Dogs SA/NT, we train dogs to support people with all kinds of needs, such as a Court Companion, Assistance or Facility Dog. We know from experience how much of a calming effect our lovely Labradors can have, and Zeb will be welcomed wholeheartedly.