The Westhampton Public Library is a warm and welcoming place to all who enter, including well-behaved canines. And, it is the place where my future Bright Spot therapy dog Lily truly shines as her placid, loving, companionable self.
Now that I have determined that Lily enjoys this environment over that of a healthcare facility (we’ve made several practice visits to an assisted living facility), I intend to increase the number and length of our library visits. Today, we spent about 40 minutes there, Heeling between the stacks, and practicing Sits, Downs, Stays, and Comes. We spent time Relaxing on the rug in the Children’s Corner – I sat down next to Lily and read her a book. She lay by my side perfectly relaxed and enjoying the attention. [For dogs that participate in the Reading-to-Dogs Program, it is imperative that they are willing to lie down in relaxed position for an extended period of time.] A few folks came over and chatted with us… Lily remained peacefully lying in her position on the rug. When we left the Children’s Area and moved near the Circulation Desk, more folks came over to pet her and talk with her. All the while, she’d look up at me, waiting for the next directive. Oh, Lily, I’m so proud of you! Great progress, girl!
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