School Reading Program

The primary focus of Pets With A Mission (PWAM) is the development of literacy through the R.E.A.D.® (Reading Education Assistance Dogs) program, in which registered teams work on a weekly basis, one-on-one with emerging readers, as well as, students who may be identified as at-risk to improve reading skills in a school setting. The program provides a combination of literacy focus and mentoring for the children who participate. The unconditional love bestowed by the friendly dogs provide the motivation which boosts self-confidence and makes reading fun! Equally capable are the skilled, caring human team members who undergo training, and testing (through Intermountain Therapy Animals, www.therapyanimals.org). We provide over 1600 hours of therapy team services in schools per year.

Pets With A Mission has presented its noteworthy educational message to the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA), Reading Is Fundamental (RIF), the Texas State Reading Association (TSRA), and the Hawaii Library Association. The group has also appeared at the Technologies, Reading and Learning Difficulties (TRLD) annual conference and it has participated in local educational programs promoting dog care and safety, mentored pet owners through the registration process, and served the community in myriad other capacities.