Kane County Child Advocacy Center Welcomes First Facility Dog, DuoDog Captain

Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie L. Mosser and the Kane County Child Advocacy Center (KCCAC) have announced the newest addition to their team— DuoDog Captain, a two-year-old Labrador Retriever trained to provide comfort and support to children during crime investigations.

DuoDog Captain comes to the KCCAC through Duo Dogs, Inc., a nationally recognized nonprofit that trains and places facility dogs to support vulnerable populations. DuoDog Captain joined the KCCAC in January 2025 and will serve as the center’s first-ever facility dog.

Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser administered DuoDog Captain’s oath of office on Friday, where he was warmly welcomed by his new colleagues. “I am incredibly excited and grateful to welcome DuoDog Captain to our team,” said State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser. “Navigating the criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially for young victims. These children have already endured unimaginable hardship, and the last thing they need is to feel further fear and anxiety while seeking justice. Captain’s presence will provide comfort, compassion, and companionship to children seeking protection and justice through the Child Advocacy Center, and his addition our office reflects my ongoing dedication to ensuring that every child who walks through our doors is met with the understanding and support they deserve.”

Research has shown that interaction with facility dogs can lower heart rates, reduce stress, and improve overall emotional well-being. Prior to DuoDog Captain’s arrival, the KCCAC would borrow a facility dog, Forrest, from the Kane County Treatment Court. After Forest’s retirement in June 2024, the need for a permanent KCCAC facility dog became clear.

Now, DuoDog Captain will provide emotional support to children during forensic interviews, court preparation, and courtroom proceedings, including courtroom testimony.

“DuoDog Captain has already made a remarkable impact, quickly becoming a beloved member of our team,” said Assistant State’s Attorney Lori Schmidt, Executive Director of the KCCAC. “With his calm and gentle nature, Captain has an incredible ability to sense when children need comfort, offering quiet companionship during difficult moments. Facility dogs like Captain play a vital role in supporting children and families through this challenging process, and we are grateful to have him as part of the CAC, knowing he will bring hope and healing to those who need it most.”

Under Illinois law, child victims of sexual assault and other violent crimes may have the assistance of a facility dog while testifying if a judge approves the request.

DuoDog Captain is from a litter of Duo Dogs placed in communities across Illinois, such as his brother Crew, a facility dog serving in DuPage County. (The litter was named with a maritime theme).

DuoDog Captain’s ongoing costs are funded by the Friends of the Kane County Child Advocacy Center, a dedicated non-profit organization providing essential resources to child victims and their families.

For more information or to support DuoDog Captain and the KCCAC, visit cac.kanecountyil.gov.