Tales for Tails helps young readers build confidence

Meghan McArthur of the Stratford Humane Society, Stella her Certified Education Dog, and Grade 3 student Olivia Gauler enjoy the Tales for Tails reading program. Diane Danen photo

By Diane Danen

The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth supports people and pets across Waterloo Region and Perth County, and is extending that support into local schools.

The organization is partnering with Sprucedale Public School in Shakespeare to offer the Tales for Tails program, which helps students build reading confidence. Meghan McArthur, an employee with the Stratford-Perth Humane Society, is working with young readers at the school as part of the program.

McArthur has worked at the Stratford Humane Society for four years. She started as a camp director and continues to lead children’s programs. Once a week, McArthur visits Sprucedale Public School with her dog, Stella, a Certified Education Dog. They meet students in the school library as part of an eight-week program. Each child spends about 15 minutes reading aloud to Stella in a calm, relaxed setting.

The Tales for Tails program allows children to read aloud in a judgment-free environment. McArthur is not there to teach reading skills. Her role is to support and encourage students. Stella also plays an important role. Reading to Stella is a fun and pressure-free way to help build readers’ confidence.

To become a Certified Education Dog, Stella completed a series of evaluations. These tests are similar to those required for therapy dogs in hospitals. Stella was tested in schools, hospitals and public spaces. Evaluators observed how she reacted to loud noises and people of different ages.

“Stella was a star and passed with flying colours,” McArthur said. “Testers described her as one of the best dogs they had ever tested.”

Stella joined the McArthur family in Tavistock during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is a rescue dog originally from Texas. Before coming to Canada, she had never seen snow. Now, the part-husky dog loves winter. Stella is believed to be around 11 years old based on her hair and eyes.

Eight students have taken part in the Tales for Tails program, made possible by a government grant awarded to the Humane Society. The final session with McArthur and Stella is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2026. Organizers hope additional funding will be approved so the program can continue.

Other popular programs offered by The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth include PD Day camps, March break and summer camps, birthday parties, Vets in Training, Critter Club and Yoga with the Animals where a variety of furry friends join participants. To learn more about The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth, visit their website at kwsphumane.ca