Fitz, a highly trained courthouse facility dog, is celebrating his second anniversary with the Madison County Circuit Court.
Fitz has spent the past two years providing emotional support for both children and adults within the court system.
He is a four-year old English Labrador Retriever and was specially trained for his work as a courthouse facility dog by Duo Dogs, a national not-for-profit organization located in St. Louis.
After completing his special training, Fitz was paired with handlers, Tiffany Brooks and Emily Bell, on March 19, 2019. Brooks and Bell are employed with the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. Fitz works under the supervision of Associate Judge Maureen Schuette and Chief Judge William Mudge.
“Fitz has been an amazing resource for children and adults in courtroom situations and those in need of comfort and support,” Schuette stated. “Oftentimes, the children in our courts are directly or indirectly involved in cases and we want them to just be kids and not worry about everything going on in the courtroom.”
Fitz receives financial support from the Madison County Bar Association and free veterinarian care by Dr. Dan Buller and his staff at the Bethalto Animal Clinic. Fitz also receives bathing services and treats from the Whisker Bones in Edwardsville.
“We are delighted to celebrate Fitz’s two year anniversary with our courts,” Mudge stated. We are grateful to Duo Dogs in St. Louis for this wonderful addition, to the Madison County Bar Association for their financial support for our dog, to Veterinarian Dr. Daniel Butler, at Bethalto Animal Clinic P.C. for agreeing to provide free veterinarian care and services for our dog, and to Whisker Bones for helping to bathe and provide treats for him.”
When Fitz isn’t providing emotional support, he enjoys spending his free time playing soccer and fetch.