Dogs helping kids with reading confidence

Did you know that dogs can actually help kids learn how to read?! It is not because we know how to read, but because we are such good listeners (most of the time). Reading Education Assistance Dogs, or R.E.A.D., brings dogs to schools where kids can practice reading aloud in an unintimidating environment. If a kid makes a mistake, we aren't going to make fun of them like his classmates might. Hanging out and reading with dogs can actually build a child's confidence in their reading so they can do it even better around other people. Check out the whole story on CNN.com.

Wags to tipster Bella for the link!

[Image courtesy of the Reading With Rover program, and affiliate of R.E.A.D in Washington State]

Even kids can help rescue pets!

Check out this awesome 7-year old human, named Vincent. Just a kid and he is already helping out homeless animals! He worked really hard and collected food, blankets and toys for his local Humane Society. Go Vincent!

Did you know that volunteering to help homeless pets is actually a great summertime activity for kids? My person spent summers as a kid helping out at her local Humane Society--feeding dogs, cleaning cages, and taking them out for walks. Or you can do collections like Vincent. Shelters always need the help, dogs always need the love, and it teaches kids about the repsonsibilities of owning a pet!

Check with your local shelter to see if the smaller members of your family can help out. You can go to Petfinder.com and search by zip code to find all the shelters and rescues near you.