Collaboration allows kids to read to furry friends

Young readers in Hancock County had the opportunity to share their favorite stories with dogs!

In collaboration with Visiting Pet Teams of South Mississippi, Hancock County Library System is now hosting Sit-Stay-Read.

It will be used to develop children’s reading skills in a judgement free space and a chance for therapy dogs to further their socialization skills.

Kids took turns reading to their new four-legged friends while also giving them treats and scratches.

Visiting Pet Teams of South Mississippi board president, Patsy Thomas, says this is beneficial for everyone involved.

“They read out loud and our dogs are non-judgmental. so they’re real calm and cool and it just gives them a different element to you know to enjoy while they’re reading,” Thomas said.

Sit-Stay-Read occurs on the first Thursday of every month at the Bay St. Louis Library.