In an initiative that combines the joys of reading with the presence of a furry friend, Shannon, a certified therapy dog, has become a regular visitor to the Midland Centennial Public Library every Tuesday. The weekly initiative plays a role supporting children in developing their reading skills while simultaneously providing a soothing antidote to anxiety.
Shannon is a 12-year-old English Setter who spent her first four years of life as a show dog before finding a loving home with her current owner, Jeannine Hurst. With a prestigious breed type, Shannon was also bred to produce beautiful litters prior to adoption. Hurst adopted Shannon in 2015 and dedicated time to training her to become a therapy dog.
Prior to adopting Shannon, Hurst was a professor at the University of Texas Permian Basin. She found inspiration to engage in canine therapy work after a student of hers submitted an inspiring thesis detailing the positive influence therapy dogs can have on the well-being of children. Five years later, Hurst retired and adopted Shannon. According to Hurst, she knew that she and Shannon could further prove the benefits therapy dogs have on children by meeting with children at the library where children could read to Shannon.
Shannon’s calm nature makes the reading process enjoyable and less intimidating for children, providing a safe space for children to practice their reading.
“I would describe my daughter as a ‘reserved reader,’ given that she does enjoy books but does not like to read aloud,” said parent Caz Quain to Midland Times while at the local library. “However, the first time my daughter read to Shannon, I saw a spark in her: my daughter was more alert and much more interested in the words of the story since having Shannon near her and providing her with comfort.”
The weekly initiative not only aims to improve literacy but also taps into the scientifically proven benefits of animal-assisted therapy for reducing anxiety in children. As children read to therapy dogs, researchers have reported the decrease in stress levels and an increased sense of comfort and confidence.
According to Frontiers in Veterinary Science, therapy dogs can improve children's overall wellness in diverse environments, including schools, hospitals, airports, and courtrooms. Research indicates that therapy dogs contribute to stress reduction by lowering cortisol levels, fostering positive emotions, encouraging participation in learning activities, and fostering positive attitudes toward education.
According to Hurst, Shannon has participated in court cases involving children who were victims, providing comfort and reassurance to help ease the difficulties the children faced during the proceedings. Shannon is also regularly involved at Children Advocacy Centers as a support to children who need comfort.
Shannon and owner Jeannine Hurst’s dedication of time each week to assist children in reading and alleviate anxiety stands as an example of the positive impact that compassion, understanding, and furry companionship can have on young readers as they learn to explore the art of reading.
Parents and guardians interested in having their children participate in reading to Shannon are encouraged to visit Midland Centennial Library on Tuesdays evenings.