Puppy Dog Tales at Hawkesbury Central Library

Hawkesbury Library Service invites children to its reading program ‘Puppy Dog Tales’ at the Hawkesbury Central Library, which runs every Thursday until 11 April 2024.

The program seeks to enhance early literacy skills in children while they enjoy reading to a dog: “Animals are ideal reading companions because they promote relaxation and lower blood pressure, do not judge, laugh or criticise and allow children to go at their own pace.”

“A reading session is approximately 10 minutes long, where each child is one-on-one with a specially trained dog. Reading sessions take place in a quiet area of the library. In this non-judgemental environment, the children’s focus improves, their literacy skills increase, and their confidence soars,” the Hawkesbury City Council mentioned.

Admission to each class is free, but booking is required via Eventbrite Puppy Dog Tale or by calling 4560 4460. The Hawkesbury Central Library is located at 300 George Street, Windsor.

The Hawkesbury Library Service began the program’s trial last March 2023. This year’s sessions run from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, and are held every Thursday until 11 April. 

On the other hand, Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter (HCAS) is looking forward to helping people needing a new companion or a pet to read with. The animals come from the local government areas of Cumberland, Penrith, Hornsby, Hills, and Hawkesbury.

According to the HCAS, “All dogs and cats available for adoption are desexed, vaccinated, microchipped, and lifetime registered before leaving the Shelter.”

In addition, the HCAS also has a “Pet of the Week,” with pets available for discounted prices weekly and can be accessed at the Hawkesbury City Council’s Pets for Adoption.

One of them is Buzz, a two-year-old male Labrador Cross with lots of friendly energy to give to kids and fellow dogs, ready to join a new family at $99.

The Shelter mentioned Buzz as “a lovely friendly boy who can get a little excited when he first meets you, he has been great playing next to the other dogs in the play area and generally well-behaved when on a lead.”

The Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter is located at 10 Mulgrave Road, Mulgrave and is open daily.