CERTIFIED READING ASSISTANCE DOGS
SitStayRead dog team handlers must go through extensive training to prepare for their work inside classrooms, and then pass a test with their dogs. Our evaluation process was created in partnership with a certified professional dog trainer and has proven effective for our programs.
By bringing dogs into the classroom, students gain fun, positive associations with reading and writing. SitStayRead dogs also provide important physical and mental health benefits we categorize as Social Emotional Learning assets. Studies show that interacting with a dog can help lower a person’s blood pressure and cortisol levels for example. If you would like to know more about this aspect of our work contact info@SitStayRead.org.
CONFIDENCE BUILDERS
SitStayRead dogs create a positive social environment that allows young readers to feel relaxed and less worried about making mistakes. Our Certified Reading Assistance Dog teams set the stage for an optimal learning experience.
“SitStayRead dogs make me happy and excited. When I visit them, they are nice, sweet, and kind.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are SitStayRead dogs therapy dogs?
While we use many animal-assisted therapy techniques in our literacy programs, our dogs are not certified therapy dogs. If you’re looking for a great therapy dog organization, we recommend our friends at Canine Therapy Corps.
Who makes a great SitStayRead dog?
For starters, all SitStayRead certified reading assistance dog candidates must be at least a year old, spayed/neutered, and up-to-date on vaccinations to be eligible for training.
Second, a dog must have the right temperament for the classroom environment. For some dogs this can be overwhelming; there may be other opportunities out there for service. Dogs who genuinely enjoy being around young children and are comfortable in new, sometimes noisy environments, are a great fit for our program.
Third, SitStayRead seeks dogs with good recall and obedience skills, as there are occasionally fire drills or other unexpected events during a session, and a strong bond with the human dog team partner is crucial for the dog’s well-being and that is everyone in the classroom.