Bear was bred for optimal temperament to work with children and adults in courtrooms, public settings, and in facilities where stress levels are high. (Photo courtesy of the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office)

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has adopted a dog to help crime victims and children in situations where stress levels are high.

Assistant Inspector Janet Era applied to Canine Companions for Independence for a facility dog placement earlier this year, underwent training in Santa Rosa and was eventually paired with “Bear,” a 2-year-old lab who responds to roughly 40 commands in at least two languages.

Era says she didn’t pick the dog, the dog picked her.

“Being partnered with Bear has brought a sense of calm to the environment we work in,” Era said. “Observing the change he instantly makes in a victim’s life makes me grateful to be partnered with him.”, but they estimate the cost of the training at more than $50,000.