Reading Dogs, a unique program that utilizes the therapeutic power of dogs to aid in reading and communication skills, recently partnered with the ‘4Get-me-not’ organization to support seniors battling Alzheimer’s and dementia. The program’s star member, Tess the Labrador, spent an hour with twelve seniors, creating a special connection through reading books and singing songs. The animal-assisted intervention with Tess has proven to enhance mood, increase social interaction, and provide a calming effect for those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as children facing verbal difficulties.
Karalynn Thomson, the managing director of Reading Dogs, highlighted the significant improvements seen in the social and emotional well-being of Alzheimer’s patients through their sessions with the reading dogs. The program aims to combat the loneliness associated with Alzheimer’s by providing opportunities for patients to bond with the dogs. Additionally, the program has expanded to help children with learning difficulties, with heartwarming stories of children making significant progress in their verbal skills through interactions with the therapy dogs.
The Happiness Dogs program, supported by Royal Canin, was launched in 2021 to provide animal-assisted therapy to children with learning difficulties and promote the human-animal bond. Therapy sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each child and have been conducted in various settings, resulting in increased interaction and language development. Thomson emphasized the transformative impact of animal-assisted therapy on both Alzheimer’s patients and children, noting big breakthroughs in their progress and improvements in language skills, confidence, and overall well-being.
In addition to therapy sessions, the Reading Dogs program also conducts school reading sessions tailored to match the reading level of each class. These sessions offer children the opportunity to read to the dogs in a quiet area without interruption, encouraging a love for reading and improving communication skills. Thomson highlighted the importance of proper recruitment and training for team members, ensuring the safety of both the child and the dog during therapy sessions. Those interested in joining the program can undergo an assessment and receive training for six months before becoming part of the team.
Overall, the Reading Dogs program is making a significant impact on the lives of both Alzheimer’s patients and children with learning difficulties through the therapeutic power of dogs. The program’s innovative approach not only enhances mood and social interaction but also promotes language development and overall well-being. By expanding their reach and continuously improving their sessions, Reading Dogs continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need, proving that the human-animal bond is truly transformative.
