Reading Starts With D-O-G

A boy and a rescued black lab sit on a brightly colored rug in the Roswell Library, a book on hammerhead sharks spread between them. Samson waits patiently as Josh sounds out the word 'plankton.' It's a tough one, but Josh gets it.

“You did it," said Samson's owner and handler, READing Paws volunteer Shannon Zdancewics.

“I did!” Josh shouted.

Samson licks the boy's arm.

Beyond the thrill of accomplishment, Josh is further rewarded with being allowed to give Samson a treat. The way he smiled, you would think he had just won a trophy.

Thanks to specially trained dogs like Samson and generous volunteers like Zdancewics, this inspiring scene is a regular occurrence at the Roswell Library.

Samson, a two-year-old dog with soulful brown eyes, is calm and gentle. To the children, he's a hero. Whether they're reluctant readers, shy, or facing developmental challenges, Samson offers a unique learning companion who won't judge or get impatient as they practice reading out loud. And his handler, Zdancewics, shares his patience and provides her own brand of encouragement with support, pride, and focus.

READing Paws is an affiliate of Reading Education Assistance Dogs, a national program that trains therapy animals to work with kids in schools and libraries to build reading skills with the help of dogs, cats, rabbits and even horses. The dogs must go through rigorous training for health, safety, skills, and temperament. Their one-on-one presence is calming and less intimidating than a school setting among peers because the dogs listen attentively with no judgment or criticism.

The results are significant: children gain reading and communication skills, while building self-esteem and confidence.

“Can you read this paragraph to Samson?” Shannon asked Josh.

He fights through several big words, including 'aquarium,' with Samson's head on the boy's knee. At the end, Josh's pride shines and Samson's tail wags. Josh gets a bookmark, a pencil and a sticker that proclaims “I read to Samson!” Samson gets a treat.

But the real victory here is the magic of a partnership between trainer, dog and child.

The READing Paws program at the Roswell Library is for beginning readers from first grade and up. Children might read to Samson, a yellow lab named Bella, or a Bernese Mountain Dog named Morgan.

The program gets booked up fast. Stop by the library or call 770-640-3075 to schedule an appointment. For more information on READing Paws, call 615-794-5761 or visit their website.

Has your child participated in the program?