Reflections on learning, growth, and the quiet impact of Dylan’s first summer as a reading and therapy dog
Our first summer as The Story Dog team has been truly special. Dylan’s gentle presence has had a wonderful impact on me and on the people he meets. He lives in the moment, loves meeting people, and seems to enjoy every kind stroke.
Dylan and I have had an amazing summer, full of challenges, opportunities, and growth. Starting a new business has taught me lessons I could only learn through experience, and it has reminded me that the journey matters as much as the destination.
At the start of summer, our goal was to gain practical experience and prepare for our in-person PAWS assessment. Most importantly, I wanted to know that Dylan truly enjoyed the work and felt comfortable in his role. Seeing his excitement when he put on his jacket showed me how much purpose he found in being part of The Story Dog team. This summer has helped us put our theory, home training, and everyday practice into action. It has also helped me better understand Dylan’s behaviour, especially his need to settle and switch off, and adapt his training in ways that feel fun, calm, and supportive.
My learning combines the PAWS therapy dog certification programme with a canine behaviourist diploma. Both have deepened my understanding of Dylan and helped me observe other dogs more thoughtfully. Conversations with dog owners have shown me how powerful a shift in perspective can be when we try to see things through the eyes of the dog.
The learning has continued behind the scenes too. Before The Story Dog, I had never created a website or managed a business social media account, so there has been plenty to learn. I now take time with each idea, making sure it fits our values, supports both people and dogs, and contributes to the impact we want to make.
Our experiences have helped us clarify our priorities: supporting our local community while always putting Dylan’s welfare first. That means setting fair boundaries, including around travel, even when I would love to help more people. In time, it would be wonderful to see a network of reading dogs across Cheshire, sharing opportunities locally.
We are still at the beginning of our journey. Every session teaches us something new and helps Dylan and me grow together. I enjoy working with each setting to plan sessions that suit their children, because no two settings or children are the same. My learning and development background helps me create sessions with structure, flexibility, and care. Activities may include reading with Dylan, storytelling, picture prompts, sensory tasks, dog-themed activities, or calm reflection, all chosen to build confidence, communication, emotional awareness, and positive engagement.
Dylan has settled beautifully into his therapy work. He seems happy around people and has taken naturally to his role as a reading dog, whether he is listening from his bed, choosing a story, or wagging along to a nursery rhyme. When he feels unsure and takes himself to his safe place, I respect that and support him until he feels settled again.
After each session, Dylan needs time to decompress. He gives a lot of energy to his work and responds sensitively to people and his surroundings. I follow his lead afterwards, whether that means garden play, a walk, or a long sleep. I also build in time before and after travel so he can adjust and recover fully.
Through this work, we build genuine connections with children, parents, caregivers, and settings. Their feedback helps me shape sessions around each child’s confidence, communication, interests, and needs. By listening carefully, I can continue developing The Story Dog in a way that feels responsive, inclusive, and meaningful.
Summer 2026 will always hold a special place in my heart. It has shown me how powerful small, gentle moments can be: Dylan forming quiet connections, children growing in confidence, and families seeing the difference those moments make. This summer has taught me to trust the journey, celebrate progress, and keep showing up with kindness, patience, and purpose. Dylan and I have made wonderful memories that will shape what The Story Dog becomes this autumn.
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