Since July 2025, the Ronald T.Y. Moon Judiciary Courthouse in Kapolei has welcomed golden retriever Tuukka, who, with handler Jackie Hugger, provides comfort to children and families navigating Family Court. Tuukka, known for his friendly nature and love of swimming and sand digging, visits once a week, often on Wednesdays, to support those facing stressful court proceedings, according to the Hawaii State Judiciary.
"Emotions often run high, given the very difficult circumstances that bring people to Family Court," said District Family Court Judge Natasha Shaw. Hugger said Tuukka approaches willing individuals and sometimes sits beside children before their court appearances, helping reduce anxiety and create moments of calm, as reported by the Hawaii State Judiciary.
Six-year-old Tuukka is a therapy dog trained by Hugger to work in different environments. He has been exposed to places like Home Depot and medical settings to get used to various sounds and equipment. Tuukka is registered with Pet Partners, which requires retesting every two years. "You can tell when it's a workday because he gets so excited," Hugger said. He visits courtrooms, military bases, libraries, the COVE Child Development Center in Kailua, and juvenile detention centers. "And sometimes, healing begins with a wagging tail and a quiet moment of connection," as stated by the Hawaii State Judiciary.
