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Government of Western Australia State Coat of Arms
Children's Court of Western Australia

Government of Western Australia State Coat of Arms
Children's Court of Western Australia

Home > Services and Support > Meet our Facility Dogs

Meet our Facility Dogs

Poppy, Millie and Winston are facility dogs from Guide Dogs Western Australia. They are especially trained to comfort and support people attending court.

Poppy is a younger black labrador who quickly settled into her role meeting people at court and making them smile. She is very cute and has a fun personality.

Millie is a blond labrador who is the sweetest girl and has the softest coat to pat. She is very relaxed and friendly.

Winston is a black labrador and was the first Justice Facility Dog in Western Australia. He has been easing stress and anxiety in the Perth Children's Court since October 2021. He has assisted hundreds of court users and remains a favourite with everyone.

Image of Poppy who is a younger black labrador.

Poppy

Image of Millie who is a blond labrador.

Millie

Image of Winston who is a black labrador.

Winston

The role of our facility dogs

One of the facility dogs will be at the Perth Children's Court every morning. They are here to support people when they are at court. They can sit with a child witness if they need comfort. They are all very friendly and love people.

When the facility dogs are walking through the waiting areas, you can ask the handler if you can pat and talk to them. The handler will tell you if it is Winston, Poppy or Millie.

If you do not want them to come near you, you can tell a security officer or other staff member. They will be on a leash and have a handler with them at all times.

Our facility dogs are allowed to be in waiting areas of the Perth Children's Court as part of their role. They are not allowed to go other places without permission.

Guidelines for interacting with our facility dogs

  • Always introduce yourself to the dog and allow them to come to you.
  • Stroke or pat the dog gently on the chest or side.
  • If the dog wants to move away, please do not force or restrain them.
  • All the dogs will respond well if you call their name and have a gentle tone.
  • Please be considerate not to overwhelm or overcrowd them. Everyone will get a chance to see them and pat them.
  • Always listen to instruction from the handler.
  • Facility dogs are not allowed to jump up or lick people or objects.
  • Do not feed the dogs or eat near them.

Meet Winston

Meet Winston video transcript.


Last updated: 26 March 2025

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