IMAGINE having an attentive, wet-nosed, floppy- or pointed-eared companion by your side as you learn to read with confidence.
Across Australia, Story Dogs are making a remarkable impact in schools through unique animal-assisted learning programs that help children strengthen their reading and communication skills. By offering a calm and receptive audience, these dogs provide children with a safe space to practice reading aloud, boosting both confidence and enjoyment.
As a specialised form of animal-assisted learning (AAL), programs like Story Dogs and Riding for the Disabled (RDA) immeasurably enrich the lives of the people they support.
This Christmas, The Petstock Foundation has launched its Christmas Project, calling on Australians to help raise more than $520,000 to support these invaluable programs.
Naomi Mancktelow from the Petstock Foundation said the campaign highlights the profound role animals play in promoting human wellbeing.
“This campaign is about helping Australians who need it most and offering comfort and hope through the companionship of animals.
“Programs like RDA and Story Dogs help more than 3,000 Australians every week access the unique emotional and physical benefits of animal-assisted programs. Yet, there are still hundreds of schools and families on waiting lists across the country.”
With more than 2,900 children participating weekly across over 400 schools, the effectiveness of Story Dogs is clear. Still, over 500 schools remain on the waiting list.
By donating just $2 to the Petstock Foundation this festive season, you can help fund programs like RDA and Story Dogs, bringing assistance horses and reading dogs to communities nationwide.
To support the Petstock Foundation’s Christmas Project, visit any Petstock store or go to petstock.com.au to make a donation. With 100 percent of funds directed to the Foundation’s charitable partners and projects like the Christmas Project, your contribution will help enrich the lives of Australians through the incredible benefits of animal-assisted programs.
