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Dog Learns to Read to Help Children With Their Own Reading Skills

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A man and a dog in a library, where the dog learns to read alongside children.

A chocolate Labrador retriever is helping children gain the confidence to read by also recognizing words.

Named Fernie, the 2-year-old dog was brought to classes in the UK to act as a therapy dog, helping children build confidence with their reading skills. He would comfort the children while they read aloud, resting his head on their lap and not judge them. But since starting at a school in Brisol, Fernie’s handler, Nik Gardner, wanted to see if the dog too could read.

Related: Abracadabra! Watch Magician Astound Dogs With Disappearing Treats

So, Gardner worked with the dog to recognize words on flashcards. Fernie can read the words “sit,” “down,” “roll over” and “spin.” And Gardner believes this helps children’s confidence.

“It means that if the dog can read the flash cards and do what it says, then it sends a message to children, that if the dog can do it, it is a good motivation for them to learn how to read as well. ”

Check out the video below:

By Andrea Huspeni

Andrea Huspeni is the founder and CEO of This Dog's Life. Her mission it to help dogs live a happier, healthier and longer life. When she isn't working, she spends time with her two dogs, Lola and Milo. She resides in Brooklyn, NY.

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