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Texas Family Law Attorneys Look to 'Paw and Order: SDU'

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Domestic violence cases can often be emotional and strenuous for Texas family law attorneys and sometimes even more so for the members of the family involved in the case. Fortunately, the The Harris County District Attorney's Office has launched a new program to help victims of domestic violence feel at ease.

The program titled "Paw & Order: SDU (Special Dog Unit)" is supposed to provide a therapeutic environment for those who have witnessed domestic violence and for the victims of domestic violence. The Texas Bar Journal reports that for years, animal-assisted facilities have been used in health care facilities to brighten patients' days, decrease loneli-
ness, and help lower patients' blood pressure. Now the Harris County District Attorney's Office and Houston Bar Association have stepped up to the plate and are trying the new program 'Paw and Order' as a form of therapy.

USA Today reports that the program completely runs through volunteers who bring the dogs to the courthouse once a month. The pooches weigh no more than 35 pounds and include a cocker spaniel, pug, and several mix breeds. Paw and Order started only last November and has since brought cheer and joy to many in the Texas Courts system, according to Texas Bar Journal.

"The feeling in the room is so somber beforehand, but as soon as the dogs walk in, their spirits are lifted," Belinda Smith, chief prosecutor of the Harris County District Attorney's Office, told Texas Bar Journal.

For more information about Paw and Order: SDU, you can contact Ms. Belinda Smith at [email protected].

Related Resources:

  • Domestic Violence Organizations (FindLaw)
  • Domestic Violence Resources (FindLaw)
  • Texas Family Law Attorneys Directory (FindLaw)

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