Registered therapy dogs and their volunteer owners visit the Library to spend time one-on-one with participants. The program is usually limited to elementary school children, but because we currently have a large number of volunteers, we are able to open it up to younger children, older children, teens, and adults too! School-age children can practice reading with one of the dogs, if they wish. Why read to dogs? Most children have a natural affinity for and bond with dogs, and because dogs are non-judgmental, children are less self-conscious while reading aloud to them. Children can improve their reading skills in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, while enhancing self-esteem, motivating speech, and building confidence. Reading to a therapy dog can decrease stress and anxiety in general, and specifically while reading aloud in front of other human listeners! If children associate reading with struggle, worry, or embarrassment, this is a chance to create new and pleasant associations with reading instead! For children who don’t yet read, or for anyone of any age who wants to spend time with a dog without reading, that’s fine too! Time spent with the dog can simply be to get comfortable and less fearful around a dog in a safe environment, or to just to ease the stress of life by petting a loving companion. Space is limited and registration is required. Please complete a separate registration form for each participant, unless participants will be together with one dog. Registration for this program is not yet open.

For KidsFree Admission