The Labrador Lol accompanied more than 300 victims in French courts for six years, becoming the first emotional support dog in the country’s judicial system. His silent presence in waiting rooms and offices was key to reducing anxiety and helping many people, especially minors, express themselves in moments of great tension.
At 11 years old, Lol is now beginning his retirement, while his place is taken by Venom, a young two-year-old Labrador who is starting to perform the same function.
A Fundamental Bond
The project was developed thanks to the bond between Lol and his handler, former gendarme Jean-Marc Mir, who recalls the animal’s physical effort after intense days. “One night I had to carry him because he was exhausted,” he recounted, emphasizing the need to respect the dog’s limits.
Mir will adopt Lol so he can enjoy his retirement in a peaceful environment, while continuing to work with Venom in the program. During the transition, both dogs will live in Mir’s home, along with Tya, the family’s German shepherd, allowing the new member to learn from the veteran’s experience.
A Consolidated Model
The initiative is supported by the national association Handi’Chiens, responsible for training these specialized animals. The goal is to ensure a progressive transition based on coexistence and direct learning.
The project began as a pilot experience in 2019, driven by Cahors prosecutor Frédéric Almendros. Since then, it has become a reference model in victim care within the French judicial system.
Impact on Victims
Lol allowed many vulnerable people to find a bridge to communicate. According to Mir: “I saw children speak directly to him, tell him what had happened to them, as if the dog was the only possible bridge to start talking to us.”
His presence offered calm, reduced anxiety, and created a safe environment for victims to face the judicial process.
Continuity with Venom
The young Labrador Venom has already begun his first interventions, accompanying victims in the courts. His incorporation ensures the continuity of a program that has proven to be effective and humane, integrating emotional well-being into justice.
Lol’s retirement marks the end of a pioneering stage in France, but also the consolidation of a model that will continue to grow. His legacy shows that justice can be more empathetic and that animals can play a fundamental role in victim care.
With Venom, the path started by Lol continues, ensuring that more people find support in the most difficult moments.
