WELCOME TO READER DOG DOWNEAST

There is a new and exciting program here on Mount Desert Island in Maine, involving kids, dogs and literacy. The program is Reader Dog Downeast. Reader Dog Downeast is launching as a one-handler/one- dog community program volunteering in the local library.

In the Reader Dog Downeast program, children with reading challenges actually read books to a dog and the dog loves to listen! A child who may be hesitant to read to his peers is typically less stressed when reading to a dog and the dog is never judgmental of the childs reading ability.

Implementing the program will take some great kids who want to practice their reading with a great dog. Expanding the program will take a few good people with a few good dogs to succeed.

The Reader Dog Downeast program is an affiliate of R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dogs), sponsored by Intermountain Therapy Animals of Salt Lake City, Utah, and a certified team with Therapy Dog International, Inc., Flanders, NJ.