How reading to pets is mutually beneficial March 23, 2025
In 2023, I mentored a young girl through an organization here in town. The girl was so sweet. She had high-functioning autism, coupled with anxiety and occasional hyperactivity.
One of her favorite outings with me was to visit NHS so she could see the dogs and read to them. She had such a heart for the dogs, both big and small! She would run to get a book.. or multiple books… to read and comfort them.
I quickly realized that the transformation was two-fold. As she sat on the ground reading to them, I noticed that she became calmer and more settled as well.
One of her favorite dogs was Fred Astaire (pictured). He loved the attention she gave him and went from jumping and barking to lying quietly, eyes fixed on her so intently, as if he understood every word!
My mentee would actually get tearful when we had to leave. I always promised her that I would let her know as soon as the dogs found their forever homes. I made goid on that promise for all the dogs she had read to. I see just how important for both the animals we care for but also for the public through these types of interactions. We never know how much of an impact such a simple interaction can have on both parties!
-Maggie
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