Reading to Dogs returns!

Reading to Dogs returns to the Meekins Library in Williamsburg this fall. The reading program, which pairs young readers with trained service dogs (therapy pets) will begin again.

Why read to a dog?

According to Intermountain Therapy Pets, Inc., animals are ideal reading companions because they:

• help increase relaxation and lower blood pressure
• listen attentively
• do not judge, laugh or criticize
• allow children to proceed at their own pace
• can be less intimidating than peers.

How the program works

A child sings up ahead of time for a 20-minute slot and brings a book to read to one dog and the dog's handler. All participating dogs are registered therapy dogs, certified through Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, Inc.

General information

• Children may enroll in sessions, based on their school grade levels.
• All sessions are held on Wednesday nights, between 5:30 and 7:00 pm, based on the child's appointment time.
• An enrolled child will attend each Thursday night, for a period of three or four weeks, during his/her scheduled time, which is the same 20 minute appointment each week.
• Each child who attends all of his/her scheduled sessions will receive a Certificate of Accomplishment and a book of his/her choice!

Don't hesitate, as space is limited! Enroll today in the Reading to Dogs program!