Therapy Dog From Theater Shooting Trial Nominated For National Award

DENVER (CBS4) - A familiar face to many is in the running for the American Humane Association's Hero Dog Awards.

Chester, a black lab from Animals 4 Therapy, was called to action by the Arapahoe County District Attorney's office upon the trial of James Holmes. The long, grueling trial brought back the terror for witnesses and victims, and forced jurors to decide on a man's life.

The conclusion was reached three years and 37 days after Holmes killed 12 and injured many more during a shooting spree at a midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises" in Aurora.

Chester was present in the courtroom nearly every day until the end of the trial, offering support to the victims and jurors.

Sometimes he was asked to visit with witnesses just before they testified, when the simplicity of a dog was needed. Other times it was after their testimony, when a person left the courtroom in tears from reliving the tragedy. Chester spent almost 140 hours at the trial.

Kateri Nelson's dog Chester, a therapy dog with Animals for Therapy, visits Colorado State University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital to be assessed for neck and back pain, September 10, 2015. (credit: CSU)

Then, his kindness was returned when it was found out that Chester had severe pain in his neck in the form of a spinal infection. The vet said it had begun months in advance, meaning the dog likely worked through the trial in pain. He needed surgery, and when those from the trial whom he comforted learned of the procedure, they set up a GoFundMe page. Chester underwent successful surgery at CSU in September.

Now, the dog has been nominated for the national Hero Dog Awards.

You can vote for Chester here.