Reading: A Fun Activity for Children -- and Dogs

Approximately twice a month, eight paws make their way into the Stratford Library.

No, they're not lost and they're not going to be chased out. They're therapy dogs, Siena and Drago.

As the dogs make their way in, up in the childrens' room there are young faces, eager to meet Siena and Drago. Children of various ages are clutching their favorite books, anticipating the arrival of the dogs.

Children sign up to read to Siena and Drago. When its their turn, they pick out their favorite book, crouch down next to the canine and begin to read out loud. It's a fun activity for children who don't own a dog or are self-conscious about their reading skills.

"The dogs never correct the children's mistakes, and they don't care about pace or pronunciation," said Lauren Friendman, Siena and Drago's owner. "This encourages the children to practice reading out loud, a skill even adults often battle with."

Friendman is on hand should a child ask for help with a word, but she never interrupts them or offers help unless asked.

"This is about creating a safe environment for the children to practice, gain confidence and continue their love of reading," she said.

Siena and Drago are two Therapy Dogs International and American Kennel Club registered Spinone Italianos, an ancient and versatile breed which was bred to hunt game in Italy. Today, they make lovely pets -- if you don't mind the shedding -- and love to compete in various events.

Siena is 8 years old and is named after the city in Italy. Drago is 5 years old and his name means dragon in Italian. When not encouraging children to read, they participate in various therapy sessions at local nursing homes and special needs schools. They are also impressive athletes, competing in obedience, confirmation, rally, pointing and retrieving, and hunt tests across the United States of America.

Siena and Drago will next be visiting the children in the Stratford Library on August 4th from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Contact the Stratford Library for more information by calling 203.385.4165 or by visiting their website.