What do Misty (Lab), Sandy (Sheltie) and Igor (Pug) have in common? They all enjoy visiting the library and having children read to them! See it in action on this A Channel News video (January 4, 2010 - Dog Tales).

These dogs and their owners are part of the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog program. The dogs are trained and specifically assessed to be able to work with children in a “one-on-one” setting. During July and August, these three therapy dog teams visited the Sherwood and Central Children’s libraries to participate in the “DogTales” program. The program continues this winter at the Central Children's Library with Sandy.

The program gives shy or reluctant readers, ages 7-13, the opportunity to read aloud to a trained therapy dog (and handler) in a relaxed and non judgmental atmosphere. The dogs are very accepting of all readers - sometimes they are asked to help sound out difficult words! We're finding that children who were previously reluctant to read are eager to visit with their furry friend and share a story.There’s also time for the children to interact with the dogs. Igor loves to demonstrate his tricks, Misty prefers hugs and pats, and Sandy loves to cuddle!

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