The Washoe County District Attorney’s Office has added a new member to its team: Kace, a Canine Companions facility dog who will assist Investigator Teri Salter in her work with victims of crime.
“Facility dogs like Kace provide tremendous support in emotionally difficult environments like ours,” said District Attorney Chris Hicks. “Their calming presence can make a meaningful difference – especially for children who have been victims of crime. In moments of fear or uncertainty, these young victims can lean on Kace for both physical comfort and emotional reassurance.”
Kace is trained in more than 40 cues and continues to receive instruction in skills tailored to her role in the office.
Her tasks include playing games with children, providing comfort and deep pressure through “lap” and “visit” cues, retrieving tissues, and other supportive actions.
In addition to assisting crime victims, Kace will also participate in community outreach efforts led by the District Attorney’s Office.
Canine Companions has been training and placing service dogs for nearly 50 years, with more than 8,000 dogs placed nationwide, including over 500 with military veterans.
The organization estimates the cost of a fully trained facility dog and all follow-up services at $50,000, but dogs like Kace are provided to clients at no cost.
The placement of Kace was made possible through the support of donors and volunteers who contribute to Canine Companions.
