Program Overview - What is Read to the Dogs?
Read to the Dogs is a program sponsored by the Public Library Albuquerque and Bernalillo
County. Handlers bring their registered pet therapy dogs into the library and provide children with
an opportunity to read aloud. The registered pet therapy dog sits calmly and quietly for a story,
creating a relaxing atmosphere for children. This gives children an opportunity to practice their
reading skills without fear or judgment. The adults do not correct a child’s reading. Parents may sit
quietly in the room with their child or take this moment to find a book and read just outside the
program area. You can read more about it here.
Why dogs?
The Public Library is pleased to provide this nationally recognized program to our families. In a 10
week study by the University of California, researchers found a 12 percent increase in reading
fluency by one group and no improvement by the group that didn't read to dogs. It was reported
by 75 percent of the parents that their children read aloud more frequently and with greater
confidence after reading to the dogs. Children who practice reading have greater success in school
and children who feel successful go on to read at higher grade levels. The Public Library hopes
through this program children will relate to reading in a positive way and become lifelong readers.
How can I participate in this program with my dog?
All dogs in this program are trained and registered in a dog therapy group. All Read to the Dog
volunteers must belong to one of the following groups:
Southwest Canine Corps
Alliance of Therapy Dogs
Warm Hearts Network
High Desert Therapy Dogs
Please visit these websites for more information about joining a dog therapy group.
After completing the testing and registration process with one of the therapy groups listed above,
you will need to upload the relevant documentation. This includes a copy of the membership card
or certificate from one of the above organizations; and a current health form from one of the above
listed organizations (proof of rabies vaccination is included on this form).
Additionally, you as a handler will need to pass a criminal background check and receive a Certificate of Compliance from Library Admin. Furthermore, the Certificate of Compliance can be completed by contacting the Library Admin at this email address: bwolff@cabq.gov.
City policy requires anyone who wishes to volunteer at the Library to consent to the performance of a background investigation by an outside agency. There is no cost to you.
A new volunteer may not participate in the Program until you have been approved. After approval,
you may participate in the Read to the Dogs program at any of the six (6) participating Libraries.
Please note that teams from the other agencies may be present at the same time you are.
Thank you for considering the Library and Read to the Dogs for your volunteer service!
