New Facility Dog Brings Healing and Comfort to Children at Chicago Children's Advocacy Center

CHICAGO, Oct. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At Chicago Children's Advocacy Center (ChicagoCAC), healing for children and families takes many forms. Today, it also comes with four paws, a wagging tail, and unconditional love. Taiga, a three-year-old golden retriever and specially trained facility dog, has joined the center to provide comfort and support to children who have experienced sexual abuse and other forms of trauma.

Children who come to ChicagoCAC often face the difficult task of bravely sharing their experiences of abuse. With Taiga by their side, they find a source of calm and reassurance. Whether curling up during hard conversations, offering a soft head to pet, or encouraging play, Taiga helps young clients feel safe and supported in vulnerable moments.

"We are thrilled to welcome Taiga to our team and deeply grateful to have her with us," said Char Rivette, CEO of ChicagoCAC. "She brings comfort and joy to both our clients and staff, and we look forward to the calm and support she will provide during forensic interviews."

Research shows that facility dogs can ease the stress children experience when disclosing abuse. In a controlled study of 51 children, those accompanied by a service-trained facility dog during forensic interviews had significantly lower heart rates and blood pressure, demonstrating how facility dogs play a key role in reducing physiological stress in high-pressure situations. More broadly, therapy animals have been shown to lower anxiety, promote calm, and help children share their experiences more openly.

At ChicagoCAC, Taiga is more than a companion. She is an essential part of the care team. Trained through Paws With A Cause, Taiga was certified to meet the needs of children in difficult circumstances.

"As a PAWS Facility Dog, Taiga will provide support and strength to children during some of their most difficult moments. A dog's gentle presence can help children feel safe and understood, helping create a space where the healing process can begin. We know that Taiga will have a lasting impact on the children and staff she serves each day" said Michele Suchovsky, CEO of Paws With A Cause.

ChicagoCAC is grateful to Virginia Seggerman, whose generous support made Taiga's arrival possible. Thanks to this gift, the organization looks forward to welcoming another facility dog in the future to expand its ability to provide comfort and care.

About Chicago Children's Advocacy Center

Chicago Children's Advocacy Center (ChicagoCAC) unites public, private and community partners to ensure the safety, health and well-being of abused children and survivors of domestic and sexual violence. As the only children's advocacy center in the city, ChicagoCAC is the Chicago's frontline responder to reports of child sexual abuse in Chicago. Its programs reduce trauma, remove barriers, and help children and families heal — all in one place at no cost.

Media Contact
Katie Metos
Chief Development and Marketing Officer
Chicago Children's Advocacy Center
312-492-3728
[email protected]

SOURCE Chicago Children's Advocacy Center