The Columbus (OH) Dispatch ran a great article on April 7th on therapy dogs used by teachers to help chldren with their reading. I had never heard of this specific purpose for dogs, but it sure makes sense. My dogs listen to me sing and tell them stories; why not dogs providing a rapt, nonjudgmental audience for young or reluctant readers.
The article, by Jane Hawes, notes the New Jersey-based Therapy Dogs International and you can learn more about their "tail-waggin' tutors" by clicking on this LINK. There are 19,000 "reader dogs" in the US and Canada!
As the parent of a special needs kid who struggles to read, I am all for this. Dogs love to feel included, to have a job. Kids love dogs. Dogs love to listen. Kids love to learn. Kudos to all involved!
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