Book Buddies program helps kids gain confidence by reading to therapy dogs

By Logan Reigstad Jan 14, 2023 | 3:51 PM

MADISON, Wis. — Several area kids spent part of their Saturday practicing their reading skills for a special audience: therapy dogs.

Madison-based nonprofit group Guardian Whiskers’ Book Buddies program helps kids build confidence and self-esteem by practicing reading out loud to the dogs.

“I think it just makes reading more exciting for them,” therapy dog owner Lauren Severson said. “They get to read to a dog which is so cool and it’s low stakes — the dog isn’t going to be like, ‘Hey, you messed up on that word’ — they’re just there to enjoy the kids.”

But it’s not just the kids who enjoy taking part; Severson and her dog Opal find the experience rewarding.

“A bunch of kids come in (and) enjoy my dog, and it’s cool to see kids come back over and over again because they really enjoy the experience,” she said. “It makes me want to keep coming back too.”

Parents or guardians can sign kids up to participate in a free 20-minute reading session every second Saturday of the month at City Dog Veterinary Clinic, 1004 East Washington Avenue.

For more information about the program, click or tap here.

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