2026 International Courthouse Dogs Conference: Full Schedule

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1:50pm PDT

PANEL: Trained for This: How ADI Programs Prepare Facility Dogs for Justice Work

Wednesday October 7, 2026 1:50pm - 2:45pm PDT

Trained for This: How ADI-Accredited Programs Prepare Facility Dogs for Justice Work A panel moderated by Kim Gramlich, Justice Facility Dogs Canada
Panelists: Charlotte Moses-Bélanger, Clinic Counselor, MIRA Foundation · Geneviève Deschênes, Canine Instructor & Training Coordinator MIRA Foundation · Courtney Starr, Head Instructor, Lions Foundation for the Blind · Jacob Rodgers, Senior Manager Client Care, PADS · Cat Barrette, Apprentice Trainer, PADS

It all begins before a puppy takes its first steps. Intentional breeding — selecting the right lineage, temperament, and drive from the very start — is the foundation upon which every exceptional facility dog is built. This panel — comprised of representatives from three of North America's leading ADI-accredited placing organizations — will pull back the curtain on what it truly takes to prepare a dog for the unique demands of justice work.
Moderated by Kim Gramlich, President of Justice Facility Dogs Canada and a handler herself, the conversation will follow the arc of a facility dog's development: from intentional breeding and early socialization, through the specialized training that prepares dogs for courtrooms, forensic interviews, and crisis settings, to what placing organizations look for when partnering with a new program. Panelists will also speak to the realities of supply, the growing demand for qualified dogs, and how accredited programs are working to meet the need.
This session is designed to be a conversation — not just a presentation. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions, and dedicated time will be reserved for open Q&A with the panelists. Come with your questions — this is your chance to hear directly from the organizations behind the dogs.

Speakers

Charlotte Moses-Bélanger

Clinical Counselour, Mira Foundation

Charlotte Moses Bélanger is a clinical counselor holding a master’s degree in psychoeducation with nearly two decades of experience with the Mira Foundation, where she has been involved since 2008.

She has developed a strong understanding of the different stages in the life cycle of assistance dogs, from selection and training to matching, active service, and retirement, as well as their meaningful impact on beneficiaries.She specializes in project evaluation and in supporting... Read More →

Catherine Barrette

Apprentice Trainer, Pacific Assistance Dogs Society (PADS)

Geneviève Deschênes

Canine Instructor + Training Coordinator, MIRA Foundation

I have been a Dog Trainer and Guide Dog Mobility Instructor since 2014 with a diverse background working not only with dogs, but also with people, horses, and even camels.

Throughout my career at Fondation Mira, I have had the privilege of learning from several master dog trainers and developing my expertise through a variety of specialized training programs. My experience includes training autism assistance dogs for children, service dogs for individuals... Read More →