Therapy dog Lily was excited to put her Bright Spot vest and ID badge on today – a sign it was time to head over to Westhampton Elementary School for Reading Buddies. Last week, the Reading Buddies session was cancelled due to a snow day. But, today’s clear weather meant Lily would be expected by the first and second graders who had been selected to read books to her this week.
Lily knows the drill so well. We headed to the office to sign in, then crossed the lobby to the school library where an inviting sign is posted on the door. Before she settled down to business, therapy dog Lily greeted each student who eagerly waited their chance to give her a hug. Oh, how Lily loves interacting with the kids! Today, she literally glowed with delight – her eyes twinkled, her tail wagged, her body wiggled, and she gave them all her doggie smile.
All greetings attended to, Lily headed right over to the special Reading Buddies Corner at the far end of the library. She settled herself into a comfortable position and listened attentively to five readers (three first graders and two second graders). Today’s reading selections were all about animals, wild animals, farm animals, and dogs. Each child explained why he or she had chosen a particular book to read to Lily. Always, Lily enjoys looking at the illustrations in the book as the reader holds the book in front of her to check them out.
The Reading Buddies Program is the perfect job for therapy dog Lily because she enjoys lying down in one place for long periods of time – and she loves children. Other therapy dogs prefer a more active environment and their handlers choose a different type of location and population to visit. The proper fit for the Therapy Dog Team is vital to having a successful and rewarding visiting experience.