Stinson the Reading Dog

Meet Stinson, a 3-year-old Australian Labradoodle. Australian Labradoodles tend to be hypoallergenic because of their authentic fleece hair. They have great dispositions and tend to be fabulous facility and therapy dogs. 

Stinson lives with Lisa and is her dog. Ever since Lisa became a Librarian in 2010 she has always wanted a reading dog. There are several studies that have shown the positive impact reading dog programs have on fostering a love of reading, reading rates and fluency. 

Stinson graduated as a Facility Dog in May of 2023. His main focus is creating a calm environment for reading with the younger students and Deep Pressure Therapy with the older students. Deep Pressure Therapy provides various benefits to individuals, including stress reduction, increased relaxation, and improved emotional well-being. It is great for those with levels of anxiety. Facility/therapy dogs help children learn compassion, empathy, responsibility, respect, and self-discipline. 

Stinson comes to MTS four days a week with Lisa and spends time with students in grades 2-8. You might also see Stinson around town in different public libraries in Marin, working with students. 

Articles about reading and dogs

Canine-Assisted Reading Aloud Intervention 

The Impact of a Canine-Assisted Reading Program 

Impact on a Canine-Assisted Reading Program for Readers Needed Extra Practice