The R.E.A.D.® Programme
We are keen to have our dogs take part in as many activities as
possible. Hence Klassy and Bob became members of Therapy Dog International
that allowed them to visit nursing homes while we lived in America. Their visits brought many smiles to everyone who saw them. Klassy is continuing
this good work in the UK as a Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog. In a different direction.,
Bob, Klassy and Shep have all been agility dogs. As well as being terrific
physical exercise, this sport strengthens the owner-dog bond and is wonderful
for a mental work out – for us as well as the dog!
While in America, we came across an exciting programme that uses therapy
dogs as a conduit for helping children with their reading. The programme
is called R.E.A.D. for Reading Education Assistance Dogs® and produces
amazing results. Klassy has visited schools and public libraries, and, in
a quiet area, she listens to 5-12 year old children read to her one-on-one.
The books can be chosen from Klassy’s own library (mainly books about
good dogs!), a school reading list, or simply a book that the child thinks
Klassy would like to hear. Klassy’s handler is not there to teach children
to read, rather Sue develops a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that encourages
reading. Using this approach, children that have struggled in the sometimes
confrontational and judgmental environment of the classroom have blossomed
into confident readers. Indeed, they look forward to reading with Klassy,
as Klassy looks forward to listening to them.
We are establishing the R.E.A.D. programme in the UK and with Klassy’s
help we will be improving children's reading in the Devon area. We are looking
to recruit more reading teams and establish this programme nationwide. Thus,
please contact us if you are interested in joining this programme. A portion
of our profits from the Klassy Canine Bakery will go towards the R.E.A.D.
Programme, to help buy much needed books and equipment.
For more information
about the R.E.A.D. programme call or email
us, or visit www.therapyanimals.org and
click on the R.E.A.D. Link.
To learn more about Pets As Therapy, visit www.petsastherapy.org
|
