My Story

Woof woof, fellow book lovers! I'm Zuri, and I've got a tail-wagging story to share about my journey into the fascinating world of reading therapy. 

It all started when my human, Carissa, noticed how much I enjoyed curling up next to her while she read her favorite stories. Yep, you heard it right – a dog who loves to read! Little did I know, this simple joy would lead me to becoming a certified reading therapy dog.

One day, Carissa stumbled upon this magical place called a library. Oh boy, the smell of all those books was like heaven for my super-sniffing nose! Carissa, being the clever human she is, had an idea. She thought, "What if Zuri could share her love for books with others?" And just like that, my destiny as a reading therapy dog was born.

We started visiting local schools and libraries, where kids were learning to read. At first, I was a bit confused – why were they looking at those squiggly lines on the pages? But soon, I realized that reading was their way of discovering new worlds and adventures. I wanted to be a part of that excitement!

So, we went through a bit of training. I learned to sit still for longer periods, staying calm and patient as little hands fumbled with the pages. Carissa would read stories out loud, and I'd snuggle up beside her, lending a furry ear to the tales being woven. The kids loved it too! They would read aloud to me, their little voices filled with excitement or sometimes a bit of hesitation. No matter what, I was there, tail thumping, ears perked up, and eyes sparkling with doggy encouragement.

You see, I have this incredible skill – the ability to listen without judgment, without correcting pronunciation, and without any of those tricky human expectations. 

As the sessions went on, I noticed something amazing happening. The kids began to look forward to our reading time, and their confidence soared. The once timid readers started to read with more fluency, and those struggling with words found comfort in my non-judgmental presence. It was as if I had become their furry reading buddy, cheering them on with each turn of the page.

We continued visiting schools, libraries, and community centers, spreading the joy of reading like a pack of literary superheroes. I became a certified reading therapy dog, complete with my own reading corner adorned with comfy blankets and a basket full of books. It felt like I had found my true calling – helping kids discover the magic of words and the joy of storytelling.

So, here I am, Zuri, the reading therapy dog, with my furry ears always ready to listen to the next adventure, mystery, or heartwarming tale. Now, every time we walk into a library or a school, I know I'm not just there for the treats (although, treats are PAWSitively awesome). I'm there to be a furry companion, an attentive listener, and a silent supporter for these incredible kids as they discover the joy of reading, akin to the delight of a gentle belly rub on a sunny day!

Woof woof, happy reading my friends!

• Curling up with human friends and listening to a good book

• Bringing people joy

• Meeting new people

• Treats, especially beef jerky!

• Running through the woods

• Belly rubs

• Swimming

• Learning new tricks

• Being chased!

• Snuggling

• Playing with my sister, Dixie

• My Jolly ball

• Bones

• A.K.C. registered

• A.K.C. S.T.A.R. Puppy Award

• Canine Good Citizen Award

• Educational Assistant

• Certified Therapy Dog