As we spotlight the Children & Family Advocacy Center (CFAC) during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, there was no question who our October Precious Pet should be. Meet Xaya, a one-year-and-eight-month-old Australian Labradoodle who holds one of the most important titles on the CFAC team: Director of Comfort.

Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and their uncanny ability to sense human emotions, making them excellent companions in therapeutic settings. Xaya embodies that gift perfectly. She joined CFAC on September 24, 2024, after spending the first eight months of her life in specialized training to prepare for her role. Once she arrived, her handlers also underwent a three-day intensive training so they could work seamlessly alongside her, ensuring she would be fully equipped to comfort clients navigating trauma and crisis.

All Business in Her Vest

When Xaya’s vest is on, she knows it’s time to work. She provides quiet reassurance, warm snuggles, and a steady presence that seems to lift burdens right off the shoulders of those she comforts. Clients often describe her as if she “takes their pain away just by sitting beside them.” Whether it’s a child walking into a forensic interview or a woman beginning her healing journey in the residential program, Xaya’s calm, intuitive presence makes the hardest days just a little easier.

Of course, Xaya isn’t all work and no play. When her vest comes off, she becomes the lovable, playful pup that has stolen the hearts of staff and clients alike. She can often be found lounging in offices, romping around in a game of tag, or chasing after her favorite ball or stick. She also has a special fondness for toys—so much so that she’s the only one allowed to make noise during staff meetings, happily chomping away on her toy while stretched out on her blanket.

Her fun-loving side shines especially bright when meeting children. One of her favorite tricks is giving “knuckles” to new friends at the Center, instantly breaking the ice and replacing nerves with smiles.

Every office at CFAC has a little “Xaya corner” because she’s such a cherished part of daily life. Staff members say it wouldn’t be fair to choose a single “most special moment” with her—because she has created hundreds. Each day, in countless small but powerful ways, she brings calm, joy, and comfort to those who need it most.

Xaya’s story is a reminder that healing doesn’t always come in words. Sometimes it arrives on four paws, with a wagging tail and a heart full of love. As CFAC continues its mission of building resilient lives, Xaya stands as a living, breathing symbol of comfort and hope—making her the perfect Precious Pet to honor during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.