Rescue Ranch has a long history of support and outreach. You may be famliar with our free and low-cost community programs for dog owners, emergency dog evacuation support, as well as educational outreach through public events and in schools. The latter has really ramped up this year, thanks to our collaboration with Karen Topping of Meghan’s House Rescue. But we also love to highlight the many ways rescue dogs can help society at large. A number of our pups have gone on to search and rescue, conservation, and other forms of specialized service, but there are so many other ways they can benefit our community in everyday activities, just by being themselves. Earlier this month, Karen Topping kicked off her latest program involving kids and puppies puppies puppies at the Siskiyou County Library in Yreka: “Reading To Rescue Pups.”
Reading is more fun with dogs
When I entered the library’s Children’s Section that Saturday, I found 10 crated Rescue Ranch ambassador pups arranged in reading stations around the room, each with a cushion, hand sanitizer, and a flyer about the crate’s occupant. On a table, a selection of picture books tempted young readers. Library staff, Karen and her team of young volunteers were on hand to help and answer questions. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the dogs’ best indoor manners were on display.
Taking advantage of the quiet, Yreka Library Branch Manager Cindy Brown took time to read to Pekin, a model canine citizen who showed off his kind, calm spirit. As Cindy is currently unable to keep a dog, this was a special moment.
Families trickled in and several children chose to read next to a puppy. Others just visited with the pooches. The snoozing dogs had a calming effect on their young visitors after the excitement of ornament making and taking photos with Santa in adjacent areas. The puppies, in turn, savored the extra attention.
More visitors streamed in. Children and adults alike were delighted to find puppies at the library, Karen shared flyers for her upcoming Youth Training Team program, and guests shared stories about the family dog, good samaritans, and amazing rescues.
While older pups rested comfortably in their crates, nine-week-old Pochahantas and Merida were far too excited to relax. Lucky pups–they got to spend the afternoon moving from one lap to another. Everyone benefitted: the little pooches got to socialize while giving people a reason to smile. They made Santa’s Nice list, for sure. Speaking of Santa, even he took a break from his photo session to cuddle one of our youngest rescues and tell me about several cherished dogs his family had saved from unfortunate situations.
More puppies puppies puppies in January & February!
Overall, the pilot event was a success. The library provided a wholesome communal environment for families to visit and relax in, while the good humor and holiday cheer showcased how dogs do bring out the best in everybody. What an excellent way to ring in the season! But don’t worry if you missed it: Karen and Rescue Ranch are teaming up with the Yreka Library for more “Reading to Rescue Pups” in the new year. Mark your calendars for January 6 and February 3, we’ll see you there!
