Dogs Demystify Dewey Decimal System … or at least we would like to think they helped!

We can only hope that after the latest Greyhound Pets of America / Houston presentations, the children, and adults alike, would have their curiosity peeked enough to use the library as a resource for further information about ex-racing greyhounds, Egypt, mummies, aerodynamics, General George Custer, and even canines, in general. Wherever their desire to learn takes them.

As part of the Fort Bend County Library System’s Summer Reading Program, GPA volunteers and their four-legged beauties had some fun expounding on the history and qualities of the retired racer which we are well acquainted with but may be something new and different to the general public. Our audiences ranged in age from the very young to the chronologically-gifted.

The first program was at the Sugar Land Library on June 12^th. This was our first appearance at this particular branch. Considering the fun everyone seemed to have, hopefully it will not be our last. Thanks go to Amy White with the dignified Slim; Brittany Spurlock with, the wackiest greyhound ever, Jasper; Mike Marshall with the stylized Phil; and Laura Marshall with “queen“ Zoe.
(Please see photos at right) 


On July 15^th, we made a presentation to the children and adults at the George Memorial Library in Richmond. This was our 2^nd opportunity at this branch to talk about our beloved greyhounds. Hurricane Claudette did not dampen our spirits but it did lessen our audience somewhat. Those dog-lovers who did brave the elements were not disappointed since the enthusiasm of GPA volunteers, like Scott Bielek and a happy Travis; Michael White with a demure Dixie and Amy White and Slim; Jennifer Lyons with a “slightly overwhelmed but willing to learn” Benny; Brittany Spurlock and the “entertaining” Jasper; and, Laura with Phil, was contagious.
(see photos at right) 

Thank you!  

Our heart-felt appreciation goes out to all the people involved in these talks, including the library staff at each location, who work with us to make everything go smoothly. Also, a big thank-you for the generous donation that each library gave to help the greyhound cause.

Here’s to our next library adventure!

P.S.

For those of you with children, or anyone who knows of a child with trouble reading, invite them to read to your greyhound. So many times, for children, reading predetermined material is required for gaining knowledge (in schools) which generally is followed by some sort of a test, i.e. written exam or book report.

Encourage a child to read a book OF THEIR CHOOSING to the dog for no other reason but pure enjoyment. Let the child make errors, no pressure, as long as they get the jest of what they are reading and ENJOYING THEMSELVES. Your dog will be, as always, non-judgmental concerning the level at which the child reads, will most likely enjoy the one-on-one quiet / gentle time, and will not demand a test afterwards. A win-win situation if there ever was one.

By helping a child learn that reading can be first and foremost fun, they will learn to read more efficiently making reading for those required tests throughout life easier.