Dogged devotion for readers

Hadley Skipper-Jones, 6, with Lady Venice, who will lend an ear to children with reading difficulties.

In another life Lady Venice ran with the horses - nowadays this placid pooch prefers a quiet story.

The 9-year-old adopted Harrier hound doesn't judge - in fact she's "All Ears" when it comes to her new role.

She's part of a world-first programme to be rolled out at Napier Library next month - with the dual aim of building confidence in young readers and promoting safety around animals.

Overseas studies show reading aloud to a neutral source removes stress and peer pressure which can be experienced by children who are still learning.

Unlike other initiatives, All Ears allows children to meet their canine companion once a week for 15 minutes all term. Participants are recommended by remedial teachers.

"Reading dogs aid young struggling readers by sitting quietly with each one and 'listening' as the child reads aloud to it," Napier Libraries manager Sheryl Reed said.

"Though typically self-conscious reading to another person, children with difficulties are much more relaxed with a friendly dog who doesn't criticise their efforts or laugh at their mistakes."

An initial intake comprises four students from Napier Central School, with Lady Venice taking on the job of intent listener.

In her retired life, this sweet pooch lives with Napier City Council animal control officer Liisa Jones, who adopted her.

The first ever reading dog scheme (R.E.A.D. Reading Education Assistance Dogs) was launched in Salt Lake City in 1999. Since then the model has been recreated in Canada, Italy, Slovenia, South Africa and Australia.

Governor-General Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae and his wife Lady Janine will witness All Ears in action during a visit to the region later this month.

Once established Lady Venice will make guest appearances at Napier and Taradale libraries once or twice a year for pre-school storytime with a handler.