Therapy Goldendoodle joins Portage County Juvenile Court team

Struggling with drugs and/or alcohol can be scary for anyone, particularly for a child or teenager. To help those youths, Portage County Juvenile Court took on a new team member: Ravioli, a three-year-old Goldendoodle trained to provide comfort and emotional support to youths participating in Unity Court.

Unity Court identifies youths whose drug and/or alcohol use has resulted in their becoming involved in the juvenile justice system. The court focuses on recognizing and building upon the youths’ strengths and on forming strong partnerships with community organizations. A volunteer-based initiative, Unity Court involves the youths’ families as essential partners at every step in the process.

Unity Courty magistrate Aaron Heavner and Ravioli have completed AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen, Canine Good Citizen and Advanced Community Canine classes. Ravioli is also a certified therapy dog.

“Ravioli brings a sense of calm and reassurance in the courtroom, and his presence has already made a noticeable impact helping the youth open up, stay grounded and feel safe,” Heavner said.

Since beginning his official duties in April, Ravioli has become a familiar presence in Juvenile Court as well. Portage County Juvenile Court Judge Patricia Smith noted that his mere presence “brings a sense of comfort, eases anxiety, and helps foster a more compassionate environment within the courthouse.”