Kindergarteners at the Westhampton Elementary School (WES) got to meet Bright Spot Therapy Dog Lilo yesterday when they had their first introduction to our Reading Buddies Program. Sweet, docile Great Dane Lilo, a giant among dog breeds, has the perfect temperament to work with these young school children. So, too, does Lilo’s teammate, Bright Spot volunteer Ern Damon. Ern’s friendly, patient manner is the perfect compliment to his Lilo. The two our a model Bright Spot Therapy Dog Team. Lilo and Ern now work with kindergarteners one week, and the alternate week, they work with pre-schoolers and third graders at WES.
I love to go an observe this team in action. The way the children and Lilo interact with one another, is amazing. I try to capture their connection to one another with my camera, whenever possible. One would think such a large-sized dog would be intimidating, but, just the opposite is true. The children seemed enchanted by her size. They adore Lilo.