KENNEWICK, Wash. – Therapy dogs are making a positive impact in the Tri-Cities and beyond by helping children improve their reading skills.
The local chapter of Love on a Leash is bringing these furry friends to libraries, creating a supportive environment for young readers. Linda Sue Irvine, a volunteer for the Mid-Columbia Love on a Leash chapter, explained the role of therapy dogs.
“Therapy dog[s] [are] there to supply some support and help people through some sometimes difficult times, or if they’re not happy, and kind of get them back on a good track,” she said.
Unlike emotional support animals, therapy dogs visit people to provide comfort, as opposed to being owned by and helping a single owner or family.
Sarah Hevland, another volunteer, shared details about their library visits. During these visits (2 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays at Pasco’s Mid-Columbia Library, and 3 to 4 p.m. on Fridays at West Richland’s Mid-Columbia Library), children read to the dogs, which helps them feel more comfortable and willing to try reading out loud.
The program is entirely volunteer-driven, and also visits hospitals, hospice centers, schools, and more.
Debbi Hannah, Love on a Leash’s Mid-Columbia Chapter leader has been volunteering for the program since the 2010’s, and her German Shepherds also volunteer for nose-work (searches) for authorities in the tri-Cities area.
Those interested in becoming a volunteer can find more information on the Love on a Leash website. The initiative not only benefits the children, patients, or those in special care centers, but also brings joy to the volunteers and their canine companions.
