Rufus, the Cane Corso, has become an adored working dog at Elk Meadow Elementary School in Bend, Oregon. This two-year-old purebred Mastiff is trained as a therapy dog, assisting students with their reading and various activities. Despite his substantial size, Rufus possesses an exceptional gentleness and finds immense joy in spending time with the children.
Rufus is an integral part of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) program, designed to enhance children’s literacy skills by providing a non-judgmental audience for their reading efforts. Research has demonstrated that children who read to dogs exhibit improved reading skills, comprehension, and fluency. This program is particularly valuable for students facing challenges in reading or requiring extra encouragement in skill development.
Beyond being a reading companion, Rufus serves as an emotional support animal. His calming presence has a positive influence on both students and staff at Elk Meadow Elementary School. Principal Lisa Greenberg attests to Rufus’s calm and patient nature, remarking, “He has a wonderful temperament and is already making a difference in our students’ lives. We are delighted to have him as part of our school community.”
Many students eagerly anticipate their weekly sessions with Rufus, where they can read to him and enjoy his comforting presence. These interactions offer a much-needed respite from the pressures of school and daily life, fostering a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere at Elk Meadow Elementary School.
Rufus is not the sole therapy dog at the school but is part of a team of therapy dogs involved in the READ program, each bringing their unique personalities and strengths to the program. The success of this program in various schools across the United States is heartening to witness, as more schools embrace its benefits.
It is evident that Rufus has made a substantial impact on the students and staff at Elk Meadow Elementary School. His friendly and composed disposition has endeared him to all he encounters, serving as a prime example of how animals can positively influence our lives. Programs like READ and dogs like Rufus are essential in creating a more inclusive world for everyone.
In the end, the unexpected role of this Mastiff as a working dog in the elementary school serves as a reminder that extraordinary opportunities can emerge from the most unlikely sources. His gentle and affectionate nature has brought comfort, joy, and valuable life lessons to the young students, emphasizing the transformative power that animals can have in our lives.
As time passed, the Mastiff continued to embrace its distinctive role, touching the hearts of all who crossed its path. It served as a reminder that, at times, a simple act of kindness and the presence of a compassionate companion can make a world of difference, even within an elementary school setting.