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Doggone good readers

Kids’ dog reading program extended into the fall at Steveston library

In a world increasingly filled with digital distractions, good old fashioned reading out loud from a book is going to the dogs — literally.

Well, at least it is at the Steveston Public Library where Bandit, a six-year-old shih tzu will be building on his popularity this summer as a good listener for those taking part in the Storytime With a Dog program in the coming months.

Lori Brisbin, Bandit’s owner, said her fluffy companion has been confirmed for fall sessions where youngsters aged seven to 12, and classified as reluctant readers can pick out a book and spend 10 or so minutes reading one-on-one to him.

The opportunity provides a positive experience for both the readers and the pint-sized pup.

“Bandit just loves listening to the kids,” says Brisbin, adding there is sometimes the odd distraction of a squirrel darting by the library’s bay window where she sets out a dog bone-printed blanket and invites youngsters to read to Bandit.

In order for Bandit to fulfill his volunteer duties at the library he and Brisbin had to undergo a comprehensive screening process to earn the designation as a therapy dog.

Brisbin received certification from two groups — St. John Ambulance and Pets and Friends — both of which focus on the soothing benefits animals can provide.

In the case of nervous readers, it creates a calm place for them to practise, explained Melanie Au, Kids’ Place Librarian in Richmond.

“Having a dog like Bandit creates a non-threatening environment where they (young readers) are not afraid to make mistakes,” Au said. “They find the opportunity gives them confidence. And a lot of them want to not only read, but show the dog pictures in the book they’ve picked out.”

The result is a tail-wagging experience for Bandit who laps up the attention, and occasionally shows off some of the tricks Brisbin has taught him.

“The kids just love that,” she said.

The program is offered one day a week for an hour, and while that means readers are lined up waiting their turn, they can in the meantime “warm up” with a “reading buddy,” a teenage volunteer the library has available to listen just like Bandit.

The Storytime With a Dog program got its start about two years ago at the main library branch at Brighouse, and plans are to expand it to more locations if therapy dogs and their owners are available to volunteer, Au said.

For more information about the program, or to get involved as a volunteer, call 604-231-6425, or email melanie.au@yourlibrary.ca.