About the 2026 International Courthouse Dogs® Conference
Some conferences fill your notebook. This one fills something deeper.The International Courthouse Dogs® Conference brings together the men and women who have chosen one of the most quietly demanding roles in the justice system — sitting beside survivors of unimaginable trauma, day after day, with a trained facility dog as their partner and a commitment to compassionate justice as their guide.
This is your conference. Built for you. Designed around three things you deserve more of: the chance to recharge, the opportunity to learn, and the community to connect with.
Recharge
The work you do is profound, often invisible, and rarely celebrated the way it deserves to be. This conference is a place to set down the weight for a moment — to be seen, valued, and reminded that what you do matters immeasurably. Vancouver's extraordinary setting, where ocean, mountain, and vibrant city energy meet, provides the perfect backdrop for renewal.
Learn
From cutting-edge research on the human-canine bond to best practices in trauma-informed justice, our conference brings together the field's most compelling voices to deepen your knowledge and sharpen your skills. Whether you are a seasoned handler or just beginning your journey, you will leave with practical tools and a fresh perspective.
Connect
There are very few people in the world who truly understand this work from the inside. They will all be in this room. The relationships you build here — with colleagues from around the world — are among the most valuable things you will take home.
Who Should Attend
ADI accredited justice facility dog handlers and their supervisors working in prosecutors' offices, child and youth advocacy centers, law enforcement agencies, and courtrooms across the United States, Canada, and beyond. If a facility dog is part of your professional life, this conference was made for you.
We also warmly welcome justice professionals who are exploring whether a Courthouse Facility Dog Program is right for their office. This is an ideal opportunity to learn what these programs look like in practice, connect with experienced handlers, and discover how Courthouse Dogs® Foundation can help you take the first steps toward bringing this proven model to your community.
Please note that due to the sensitive nature of conference content, attendance is limited to professionals ages 18 and older. We are unable to accommodate attendees under the age of 18.
Vancouver, BC — October 7–8, 2026
One of the most beautiful and livable cities in the world. The home of some of Canada's most pioneering work in trauma-informed justice. And for two days in October, the gathering place for the global justice facility dog community.
Come for the conference. Stay for the city. Leave inspired.
