O USO DE ANIMAIS COMO FERRAMENTA DE APOIO AO DEPOIMENTO ESPECIAL DE CRIANÇAS E ADOLESCENTES

This paper aims to examine, in theoretical terms, the use of trained animals, particularly dogs, as a tool for emotional support and comfort for children and adolescents who are victims or witnesses of violence heard by the Judiciary through the special testimony procedure provided for in Law No. 13,431/2017. Furthermore, the case study method will be used in order to examine the pioneering project implemented in Londrina, Paraná, which, since 2023, has been utilizing dogs as facilitators for the humanized reception of children and adolescents providing testimony in court. By comparing theory with practice, the paper investigates the potential and possible limitations of the experience started in Londrina, the assessment made by users of the judicial system and the potential for replicating the practice, in line with the paradigm of the Full Protection Doctrine for children and adolescents.