Therapy dogs, trained by Highland Canine Training, LLC are helping children in a new reading program at a local Charlotte-Mecklenburg School (CMS). The program is currently taking place at Newell Elementary School on Old Concord Road. Coyote and other Therapy dogs trained by Highland Canine Training, LLC will be joining the classroom once a week for an hour during reading time to encourage the students to read. Linda Taylor of Highland Canine Training, LLC conducts regular therapy dog classes as well as private instruction for individuals wanting to train their dogs for therapy work. These dogs often work in hospitals, assisted living homes and schools. Purebreds as well as mixed-breed dogs of all sizes and ages can be trained for this type of work. Linda stated that “Reading to the dogs is less stressful for the children, especially those who may be having trouble reading aloud. This provides the children an opportunity to hone their reading skills to an audience that will not criticize them or correct them if they make a mistake.”

The teacher of the class, Ms. Copenhaver said “Her handler and trainer was gracious enough to give us an hour of their time on Monday and the students absolutely loved it! You can see from the picture that the children enjoyed their time with Coyote. There was a lot of reading going on in the classroom! Coyote and her handler, Ms. Barbara have graciously volunteered to be with us each week to allow the students time to read to Coyote. It was a wonderful, heartwarming experience yesterday, and I look forward to their return next week, as do the children! This new reading incentive has us “barking for books”!!”

Learn more about our Therapy Dog Training Programs or call Linda Taylor at 704.500.6810 for more information.