If you are looking for a way to get your kids to read over their summer break, a local library has a fun way to help.
White Lake Township Library's summer reading program kicks off with the help of some furry friends.
It's a program called Tail Wagging Tutors! Children get a chance to have 20-minute reading sessions with pet therapy dogs.
Anna Doyle is 7-years-old.
"It's a lot 'funner' than reading by yourself," she said. "They just sit still and listen and they can understand the words."
Mary Ann Carr is the Youth Services Director at White Lake Township Library.
She said, "Seems to be easier to read out loud to a dog. They are very non-judge mental, easy going."
It's no surprise these little readers picked books about dogs. Carr said it's important for children to read out loud.
"Children are a little more conscience of pronouncing words exactly, not missing any words," she said.
Summer reading is important so kids won't lose their skills between the school years.
Some little readers may be too shy or self-conscious to read out loud and that's where dogs' listening skills come into play.
8-year-old Emma Doyle said, "It is kind of fun to read to a dog because it's different than reading to a person."
Alex Zimerman, also 8-years-old, explained, "They lay down and you can pet them and they get all snuggled up."
The program rotates between eight therapy dogs, who seem to enjoy the stories.
Christy Pearson is one of the therapy dog handlers and said, "She loves kids, she loves them. She is very laid back and low key."
The White Lake Township Library plans to host several sessions this summer and kids from surrounding communities are welcome to join.
"And we hope they go out the door full of books to keep reading," Carr added.
