A miniature Shetland pony and three alpacas appeared in court on Monday - to give a morale boost to stressed-out legal staff.
The animals were brought to Edinburgh Sheriff Court as part of a ‘ wellbeing day’ intended to give workers a lift.
The pony called Milo took up residence - complete with a supply of hay - in court ten which is typically the scene of criminal trials.
And the alpacas - Prohibition, Pearson and Rocky - were housed in a room normally used for prospective jurors to assemble.
Court staff were able to meet the animals, pet them, and even feed the alpacas a carrot while accused persons continued to appear in courts downstairs.
A number of other treats were laid on for staff, including massages, a nail bar, and, in keeping with the surroundings, a murder mystery trail.
Cryptic clues were dotted around the Chambers Street building to reveal the truth behind the courtroom death of a sheriff.
A court insider said: “The animals have been a big hit. There were concerns about the pony being caught short in a courtroom, but fortunately he was wearing a nappy.
“If anything had happened at that end, at least the carpets would have been clean when the sheriff got back.
“To be honest, we’ve probably seen worse behaviour than that from people in the dock.
“It was a strange sight to see these animals in a court setting, but the staff really enjoyed it.”
Michele Jurasinska, who runs The Power of the Horse based in Bathgate, West Lothian, brought along one-and-half-year-old Milo.
She said: “People love to see him. It has a real therapeutic value.”
Staff lined up to stroke the alpacas and offer them a piece of carrot, which was always appreciated.
Jean Macdonald and Stuart Ramsay operate Velvet Hall Alpacas in Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders and have a herd of 41 of the friendly creatures.
Stuart said: “We bring them to schools, care homes, hospitals and businesses. With their big eyes and calm temperament, people adore them.”
Jean said: “They are very calming. Just stroking an animal can reduce your stress levels and your heart rate if you’re anxious.
“Before covid, we were visiting a lot of places. That’s starting to pick up again now. When we go to schools the kids love them.”
A Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service spokesman said: "Staff are our greatest asset and, after a challenging pandemic period, our annual staff engagement day has focused on staff wellbeing.
“We know that positive wellbeing helps people to be healthier and happier and the day is part of our commitment to improving the quality of our employees’ working lives and to support them in maintaining our core values of respect, service and excellence."
