PHOENIX – The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office proudly welcomes a new member to its K9 Victim Support Program, an innovative initiative to assist crime victims sponsored by PetSmart Inc., (NASDAQ: PETM) the largest specialty retailer of services and solutions for the lifetime needs of pets.

Tori, a 4-year old English Labrador Retriever service dog, was officially “sworn in” by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors today. She will provide comfort and support to young and adult crime victims during the criminal justice process, following in the paw steps of Sam, a Golden Retriever-Irish Setter mix who continues to serve in the County Attorney’s K9 VSP.

“At PetSmart, we know the healing power of pets and the positive impact they have on both children and adults,” said Brad Kiesling, director of government affairs for PetSmart. “We’re proud to partner with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office on its K9 Victim Service Program and look forward to watching this important program grow.”

As a Victim Support K9, Tori has received specialized training to allow her to accompany crime victims at meetings, depositions and court hearings related to their cases. Like her counterpart Sam, Tori is certified as a level III Facility Dog. Funds donated by PetSmart pay for food and supplies for both K9s.

“Tori will enhance the support we offer crime victims by comforting them with the kind of unconditional love only a special pet can provide,” remarked Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery. “We are fortunate and grateful to have the generous support and partnership of PetSmart which makes this unique program possible,” he added.

More information about Sam and Tori and the work they perform on behalf of crime victims is available on their respective Facebook pages.

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