By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Benny couldn’t help but drool as McEwen Goldman, 7, read about a barbecue in the book “Dogzilla.”
To be honest, Benny was dripping slobber throughout his storytime on Tuesday. That’s just what Newfoundlands do – much to the delight of the young readers regaling him with stories at the Wood County District Public Library.
This week was Benny’s first day on the job, being the focus of the new “Paws for Reading” program at the library. Every Tuesday from 4 to 5 p.m., children can sign up to read to Benny, who seems particularly fond of stories about other dogs.
Benny has business cards citing his credentials as a certified therapy dog. Truth be told, he is inclined to eat them if he gets ahold of them, said his owner, Carol Treece, of Bowling Green.
Benny’s skills include experience as a reading instructor, his love for all things water, and his enthusiasm for people.
“The best therapist has fur and four legs,” his business card states.
The first to read to Benny on Tuesday was Autumn, 4, who read the book “A Greyhound, a Groundhog” – particularly timely since Groundhog Day was Wednesday.
“She loves dogs,” said Autumn’s mother. “She was so excited to read to Benny.”
Autumn is known to the children’s librarians for her love of animals and her plans to become a veterinarian.
“She has a real affinity for animals – even stuffed animals,” Director of Youth Services Maria Simon said.
When her time was up with Benny, Autumn called back to her new found furry friend.
“Bye. Love you,” she said.
Five-year-old Benny is a “gentle giant,” said Treece, who reluctantly admitted that he currently weighs in at 165 pounds. She was concerned that Benny’s veterinarian, Dr. Dave, may not be pleased with the Newfoundland’s new pandemic pounds.
Benny has experience being patient with humans, previously making visits to the Maurer Family Cancer Care Center at Wood County Hospital.
“That’s where he started. Then COVID hit,” Treece said. “He loves all people and animals.”
Turns out, Benny also loves books – and not just eating them.
He rewarded the young readers with occasional licks, tail wags, burps, and gently removing the mask from one young child.
“You are going to get fired,” Treece playfully said to Benny, who regularly glanced at his human for reassurance he was doing a good job.
Some of the children shared the book illustrations with Benny as they read – making sure he could get the full effect of the stories.
“He likes looking at the pictures and listening to you read,” Simon said to the young storytellers. The children also benefit. “It’s so reassuring to read to someone who’s not going to tell you you’re doing something wrong.”
If Benny heard any mistakes, he did not hound the young readers.
“He’s pretty cool,” McEwen said in between stories.
Then came the next family, with a young boy picking out the book, “If You Give a Dog a Donut” – to read to the drooling Benny.
“It’s so great to have an audience to read to,” Simon said. “They can read to stuffed animals or their own dog – try something new.”
Benny’s middle name is George, giving him the initials of B.G., Treece pointed out. He can be reached at therapydogbenny@gmail.com. Responses will likely come from Treece, since Benny’s drool could make the keyboard rather messy.
