A Miniature Horse mare has joined the Los Angeles County, California, Sheriff’s Department (LASD) to help victims cope with the emotional aftermath of traumatic incidents.

Lieutenant Jennifer Seetoo, of the LASD’s Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station, said Valor, a trained therapy horse, joined the department as volunteer in January. Valor’s trainer is Victoria Nodiff-Netanel. The horse will be used to help young children and others cope in the aftermath of crimes and other incidents the department is investigating, she said.

“For example, sometimes we have a child who is being taken from their home,” she said. “The horse can provide comfort until the department of child’s services arrives.”

The horse could also be used to help children share details of an emotional experience with law enforcement personnel, Seetoo said