A Central Oregon program that pairs therapy dogs with elementary school students is celebrating 20 years of improving children's reading and building connections.
“The first time I read a dog was because it was the first time I asked the teacher a question,” said third-grader Levi. “I've always loved dogs. My father was allergic, so I couldn't spend much time with them.”
Compassionate Dogs of Central Oregon has been at Elk Meadow Elementary School since its inception.
Eight new service dogs are graduating from an Oregon prison to help disabled veterans.
“The dogs feel special, and the readers feel special and so do the dogs,” volunteer coordinator Jennifer Horsman said.
Volunteer Renee Smit said: “Therapy dogs are very important to children and this is a special time of their day.The dogs are often read to by their teacher, their mother, or their parents.'' It’s different from reading a book just for me,” he said.
Students improve their reading comprehension, build bonds, and practice leadership.
“There are always kids who want to pet your dog. 'Can I pet your dog?' So when the dog is here, that dog is the reader's dog, and it's the reader's It’s a responsibility,” Horsman said. He can say yes or no. ”
If you would like to get involved or learn more about Compassionate Canines of Central Oregon, click here.
