Reading Dogs

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The main objective of the Acme Dogs program is to provide a relaxed and "dog-friendly" atmosphere, which allows children to practice the skill of reading. Many of the children chosen for this program have difficulties reading and as a result have developed self-esteem issues. They are often self-conscious when reading aloud in front of other classmates. By sitting down next to a dog and reading to the dog, all pressure of being judged are put aside. The child relaxes, pats the attentive dog, and focuses on the reading. Reading improves because the child is practicing the skill of reading, building self-esteem, and associating reading with something pleasant.

During this 6-week course, dog owners will learn the skills to work with children on improving their reading comprehension and how to use their dog as the facilitator for relaxed reading. Areas covered include sitting politely for petting, holding a page in a book with their paw, place mat command, reacting politely around children and distractions as well as being tested for health, safety appropriate skills and temperament to work with children. The class is specifically designed to have your dog achieve reading dog status and work with local libraries and book stores to encourage reading with children.

Dogs and owners will need to pass an examination in order to achieve Acme Dog certification.