See Spot Read is a loosely affiliated group of volunteers who:

• Find opportunities in Wake County for kids to read to dogs
• Present a coordinated and consistent program
• Promote the benefits of dog-based reading programs
• Share information with others

Numerous programs are springing up around the country that recognize the benefits of pairing children with certified therapy dogs to improve reading performance.

Literacy specialists acknowledge that children who are below their peers in reading skills are often intimidated by reading aloud in a group, have lower self-esteem, and view reading as a chore. Dog reading programs are based on the premise that children will find reading to an animal less intimidating than reading to their peers, parents or teachers.

Research with therapy animals indicates that children with low self-esteem are often more willing to interact with an animal than with another person. Being with the dog is relaxing and fun, and builds a positive association with reading activities. Instead of reading being a chore, it becomes something to look forward to when a dog is involved.

See Spot Read volunteers offer a program to Wake County libraries and other facilities that serve children where we bring therapy dogs to work with kids on building reading skills. We're also fostering positive interactions between children and dogs and have seen many kids overcome their shyness or fear of dogs.