Kids learn to read with dogs

It may strike you as odd, walking into a library and seeing a child reading to a dog — and not just any dog: A very attentive dog.

No, it’s not the opening scene of a children’s movie or the plot of a Dr. Seuss book. It’s real life, and it makes perfect sense to Cottonwood Public Library Youth Services Coordinator Joyce Read.

Having seen the success of the Paws to Read program while working at the Flagstaff Public Library, Read — an employee with CPL for two years — decided to found a similar program for Cottonwood children.

“I’ve been wanting to do this for a while, actually,” Read said, adding that the primary reason for reading to a therapy dog is that it helps create “a non-judgmental, relaxed atmosphere.”

According to Read, having an silent and attentive audience is fundamental for children who might otherwise become intimidated with learning to read — though this is far from the only reason to encourage relationships with canines.

“Studies have shown that for people who have a dog in their lives, just petting the dog lowers their blood pressure,” Read said. That kind of relaxing effect encourages children to proceed at their own pace.

Read is already planning on expansion: Come April, up to two new therapy dogs and handlers may be added to the existing two pairs. Unlike in Flagstaff, where the program runs only during the summer, Read would like to see the schedule maintained year-round.

“I love seeing the kids, their faces lighting up,” Read added. “That’s what I like to see — children excited about reading …. Reading to a dog allows struggling or reluctant readers to build self-esteem, confidence and social skills.”