(Woodland, CA) – July 19, 2024 – Courtroom comfort dog Aloha was inducted into the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Animal Hall of Fame last week during an awards ceremony at the Pacific Veterinary Conference in San Francisco. Aloha has been a member of the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office since October 4, 2012.
Over the past 12 years, Aloha’s major role has been providing valuable emotional support to many crime victims, including children, who are navigating the legal system. She has sat with victims during court proceedings, providing them a calming presence as they testify. An added benefit of her service has been the comfort she has provided to the office’s attorneys and staff, who often work in emotionally charged situations.
According to the CVMA, the California Animal Hall of Fame celebrates companion and working animals that “through unselfish and courageous accomplishments [exemplify] the affection, loyalty, security, and value of the human-animal bond.” Aloha was nominated by Dr. Keith Rode, a local veterinarian and former president of the CVMA, earlier this year.
Aloha’s care has been provided by Laura Valdes, Victim Services Director for the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office. Valdes, who attended the ceremony and received a plaque commemorating the award, stated “I appreciate the years of care Dr. Rode has provided to Aloha and we are honored that he saw fit to nominate her for this tremendous honor. Aloha is heading into retirement a hall-of-famer.”
District Attorney Jeff Reisig praised Laura and Dr. Rode. “Having a service dog has been a tremendous accomplishment for the District Attorney’s Office and Aloha has benefitted countless people.”
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