Via Community News Service, a VTSU-Castleton internship for the Lakes Region Freepress
FAIR HAVEN – Wagging tails and fluffy fur will soon be a monthly sight at the Fair Haven Free Library.
Starting Nov. 18 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., the library will welcome pups from Caring Canines Therapy Dogs of Southern Vermont on the third Tuesday of every month.
Caring Canines offers therapy sessions throughout the region and approached the library about bringing the dogs to Fair Haven.
Since the organization began over two decades ago, it has grown into a large operation with more than 60 teams of handlers and dogs, visiting more than 30 locations across southern Vermont.
Joan Sheldon, a volunteer with the organization, explained how the dogs are selected.
“Each team of owners and their dogs must pass a certification exam as well as supervised visits before they are qualified to be a therapy team. The dogs must be gentle and well-mannered as well as in good health. The teams may visit a variety of locations, including nursing homes, schools, libraries and hospitals. The dogs offer emotional support, love and unbiased attention to any in need,” Sheldon said.
Sheldon said the goal of the sessions is to provide a safe space for people to spend time with dogs. This can involve reading with or simply sitting next to them. Children also learn to be gentle and careful with dogs.
Jennifer Jackson, a librarian at the Fair Haven library, said the program aims to support the local community.
“The library wants to support all the people in our community in the best ways we can. I know not everyone loves dogs, but this is one way to engage community members. The presence of dogs can be calming and comforting. If one chooses, they can read with a dog or just snuggle or do whatever it is they need with these kind pups,” said Jackson.
The library and Caring Canines said the event will bring the community together and show individuals the benefits of spending time with therapy dogs.
“Time with a therapy dog often offers people a few minutes of reduced stress for whatever reason,” Sheldon said. “Often, people are missing their own dogs or are unable to have their own pet and appreciate a few minutes with the dogs.”
Jackson added that after being approached by Caring Canines to host therapy dogs, she thought the event would be a great opportunity to use the space and draw community members to the library.
“I’m hoping it brings joy and comfort to all those that decide to visit with a canine. I truly hope the community enjoys the encounter, and we can continue as long as (Caring Canines) will let us,” Jackson said.