Stuffy Therapy Dogs

When students complete their book marks by reading 30 minutes ten times, they may choose to “Take Care of a Stuffy Therapy Dog for a Day.” Each of our ten stuffed dogs wears a small collar and engraved dog tag. They each have their own charm and “personality.”

The process begins in the morning when the selected caregivers pick up their chosen stuffy from the office and complete a Stuffy Therapy Dog Care Contract. This contract outlines the caregiver's responsibilities, including treating the stuffy with gentle hands, keeping it in a safe spot during learning time, and taking it for a careful "walk" during recess. During lunch, the stuffy is placed in a designated “dog park” to keep it safe and clean. At dismissal, the students return the stuffy and receive a personalized coloring page featuring the dog they cared for as a memento of their kindness and responsibility. This structured yet playful experience provides a meaningful way for students to internalize positive behavior and practice key social-emotional skills while being motivated to read.

Each student will receive a bookmark. Each time they read thirty minutes, they will color in a paw print. Only read for 15 minutes at a time? Not a problem! Color in half of a paw print. When the bookmark is filled, a parent should sign the bookmark and the student will turn it into the doghouse in the office. He/She will be called soon for their turn, though it may not be right away.

We hope this program encourages reading as well as helps build responsibility in our learners. If your child really enjoys reading and dogs, please consider visiting Glatfelter Memorial Library the second Saturday of each month from 10-11am for Tales for Tails. Lola (in the reindeer antlers) and I are almost always there!