Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth M. Welch presented a special resolution to West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc. during a ceremony in Grand Rapids on April 30 to celebrate the organization’s 25th anniversary. The event also included Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Kathleen A. Feeney, who co-founded the Kent County Courthouse Therapy Dog Program.
The recognition highlights the role that therapy dogs play in supporting court proceedings and vulnerable individuals within the justice system. National Therapy Animal Day was also observed during the ceremony.
“What sets West Michigan Therapy Dogs apart is your extraordinary commitment,” said Justice Welch, addressing volunteers and supporters at the event. “As we celebrate this organization’s years of service to the courts and the wider community, we also recognize the ripple effects of their work—a child finding the strength to testify, a family reassured by the support given to their loved one, jurors hearing full and open testimony—all of which helps build trust and confidence in our justice system.”
Judge Feeney described her experience co-founding the Courthouse Therapy Dog Program with Kent County Prosecutor Christopher R. Becker in 2018 while serving on the 17th Circuit Court. They partnered with West Michigan Therapy Dogs to provide both animals and operational assistance for courtroom support. In that same year, they worked together to expand state law under MCL 600.2163a so that support dogs could be used inside courtrooms for victims or witnesses involved in cases related to child abuse, sexual assault, or crimes against vulnerable adults. Further changes were made in 2025 allowing children under age 17 access to courtroom support dogs and broadening which organizations could provide these services.
“What an honor to have the Michigan Supreme Court recognize WMTD and the work we do in the courtroom, as well as the community,” said Judge Feeney.
Feeney explained how scientific evidence supports offering therapy dogs for children or vulnerable adults who must testify: petting a dog can lower blood pressure, reduce activity in fear centers of their brains (the amygdala), and help them avoid fight-or-flight reactions—making it easier for them to give accurate testimony.
West Michigan Therapy Dogs was founded by Jeanne Lewis and Terrilyn Lynburner in 2001.
