Learn to speak dog—Register for Bensenville Park District Dog Days!

Bensenville, Ill.— The Bensenville Park District has joined with Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws to teach children ages 9 to 15 how to communicate with canines as part of a weekly, six-week after-school program beginning Thursday, September 29, at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

“Dog Days: Learn to Speak Dog” instructs young people in dog safety, assessment, teaching and handling using active sessions with actual lessons interacting with dogs provided by Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws. Personal dogs are not allowed. Sessions, which run from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. September 29 through November 3, take place indoors and may be held outside, weather permitting.

According to Tricia Sutton, co-founder of Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws, “This program—like others we run—is structured to engage and empower youth to take action toward their own successes and implement long term positive changes for themselves and their communities.”

Participants are instructed to wear comfortable clothes and good, comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Outdoor coats may also be needed for outdoor activities.

Those interested should register in advance at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. The fee is just $55 for both residents and non-residents.

Paws 4 Kids 4 Paws is a community-based youth development, educational and 501(c)(3) charitable organization which empowers youth to create a healthier, more successful future for themselves and to develop an understanding of domestic animals. Its mission is to provide animal-assisted experiences for youth to develop their strengths by helping rescue animals become more adoptable. More information can be found on the organization’s website, Paws4Kids4Paws.org.