KENNEWICK, Wash. – Therapy dogs are making a positive impact in the Tri-Cities and beyond by helping children improve their reading skills.
The local chapter of Love on a Leash is bringing these furry friends to libraries, creating a supportive environment for young readers. Linda Sue Irvine, a volunteer for the Mid-Columbia Love on a Leash chapter, explained the role of therapy dogs.
“Therapy dog[s] [are] there to supply some support and help people through some sometimes difficult times, or if they’re not happy, and kind of get them back on a good track,” she said.
Unlike emotional support animals, therapy dogs visit people to provide comfort, as opposed to being owned by and helping a single owner or family.
Sarah Hevland, another volunteer, shared details about their library visits. During these visits (2 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays at Pasco’s Mid-Columbia Library, and 3 to 4 p.m. on Fridays at West Richland’s Mid-Columbia Library), children read to the dogs, which helps them feel more comfortable and willing to try reading out loud.
The program is entirely volunteer-driven, and also visits hospitals, hospice centers, schools, and more.
Debbi Hannah, Love on a Leash’s Mid-Columbia Chapter leader has been volunteering for the program since the 2010’s, and her German Shepherds also volunteer for nose-work (searches) for authorities in the tri-Cities area.
Those interested in becoming a volunteer can find more information on the Love on a Leash website. The initiative not only benefits the children, patients, or those in special care centers, but also brings joy to the volunteers and their canine companions.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
