PUPILS from Highfield South Farnham Primary School had a special visitor, when Barkers of Farnham and Dogs for Good visited the school for a festive story telling session.

Children at the school enjoyed a magical storytelling session lead by Rain, a colleague from Barkers of Farnham, where they were read the Lily’s Kitchen ‘Gingerbread Dog’ Christmas book alongside specially trained reading dog Carly the golden retriever.

The pupils were then encouraged to take it in turns at reading the Gingerbread Dog story to Carly, who helped to create a calming atmosphere where the pupils could relax and focus on their reading.

Copies of the Lily’s Kitchen book were left with the group as a gift from Barkers. The book is now available to buy in stores, with all proceeds going to the PDSA.

Carly is a trained reading dog and visits children in the area with the organisation, Pets as Therapy, helping children with their education and especially learning to read. 

Rain said: “We had a fantastic time with Highfield, and it was amazing to see how much of a calming effect the dogs had on the children.

“There are many benefits to children of working with reading dogs, including reduced stress, enhanced self-esteem, and increased confidence, so it was great to be able to work with Dogs for Good and the reading dogs.”

Highfield teacher Hannah Baird said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Barkers of Farnham, Dogs for Good, and Carly for this festive story telling session.

“The Lily’s Kitchen Gingerbread Dog story is a lovely book, and the children absolutely loved meeting Carly.”

Dogs for Good work with many dogs across the country to help children of all ages with learning, education and their everyday lives.