Lycoming County commissioners read and adopted a proclamation recognizing the county’s courthouse dog program and marking the anniversary of Canine Companions, the nonprofit that pioneered facility and service dogs in professional settings. The proclamation cited the court program’s service to victims of violent crime, child and adult witnesses, and other individuals needing emotional support during legal proceedings.

Speakers honored Jedi, the county’s inaugural courthouse dog, and Ludo, a Canine Companions facility dog who has served in the Lycoming County Courthouse with handler Jerry Rook for three years. Jerry Rook thanked the commissioners and described the partnership with Canine Companions: “Without them, this program would not exist. Their continued training and support provided by Canine Companions is the reason for the success of our program.” Rook added, “I'm the lucky one that gets to hold the leash.”

Presenters noted funding and support from the Lycoming County Department of Children and Youth Services and said the courthouse dog program also provides services outside the courthouse, including to local schools and the pre‑release center. County officials and judges praised the program’s trauma-informed approach and its calming effect on children and other vulnerable participants in court proceedings. The proclamation was formally recognized on the record and a group photograph was taken with Ludo, who attended the meeting with his handler.