Maya, a Golden Retriever Therapy Dog and her owner, Bobbie, invited me to join her at All Children's Hospital Family Resource Center Library for "Paws to Read." Children of all ages were invited to gobble up their favorite Thanksgiving stories while connecting with a canine companion.
Maya is one of the friendly ‘listening dogs’ from the Child Life Pet Therapy program at the hospital.
Participating in this literacy program is a wonderful way for all children to strengthen their reading skills while they relax and enjoy this season of Thanksgiving. About Maya:
Maya was born around 10 years ago. We're not sure exactly how old she is because she was rescued by her owner, Bobbie. She was adopted through Adopt a Golden rescue organization in Atlanta. She had been rescued from a puppy mill, where she was forced to live in a cage and give birth to multiple litters. Although she was a very anxious and nervous dog when she was adopted 6 years ago, her new owners showed her great care and love. They even gave her special doggie massages, called the "Tellington Touch" when she got stressed out, calming her down with the command "Settle".Maya visits kids on their care units at All Children's Hospital, she participates in the public library system's "READing Paws" program, and visits the Ronald McDonald House, but her very favorite activity is listening to children read to her. She even frequently falls asleep to a good book.
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