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Edgar the courthouse dog helps witnesses and victims of crimes 

–Among the prosecutors and staff, a friendly pooch now patrols the halls of the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney’s Office.

Edgar with Dan Dow.

Edgar with Dan Dow.

Edgar, a 3-year-old yellow lab and golden retriever mix, is the newest DA staffer. His title: Courthouse dog. His sole job is to help witnesses and victims of crime make it through difficult preparations for court simply by being a good boy and letting himself get scratched behind the ear.

A facility dog donated from Canine Companions for Independence; Edgar is also trained to assist clients with special needs. For the DA’s office, Edgar’s specific duty will be to provide peace and calm at the Christopher G. Money Victim Witness Assistance Center.

“Preparing for interviews and testifying can be quite nerve-wracking for witnesses and victims,” said San Luis Obispo County DA Dan Dow. “Having Edgar around for folks to pet and hug will provide a level of comfort and support for some folks who really need it.”

Edgar will assist handlers Jennifer Love and Tim Murphy during their work with victims of crime.

The estimated cost of a highly trained facility dog-like Edgar is valued at $50,000. However, Canine Companions dogs are provided at no cost, due to the generosity of tens of thousands of donors and volunteers.

“The DA’s office is also very grateful for the financial assistance of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Advisory Foundation who donated $5,000 to assist in the costs of our courthouse dog program,” Dow said.

Edgar poses with members of the DA's office.

Edgar poses with members of the DA’s office.

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The news staff of the Paso Robles Daily News wrote or edited this story from local contributors and press releases. The news staff can be reached at info@pasoroblesdailynews.com.