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Puppy (and kitty) tales

By STACY VOGEL Monday, June 8, 2009 - 6:04 p.m.

The front page of today's Gazette has an adorable story and pictures about Tabby, a brown dachshund who patiently listens to fourth graders read to her.

Teacher Helen Burton brings the dog to Jackson Elementary School. She said reading to the dog makes children feel less self-conscious than reading aloud to classmates.

This story takes me back. I vaguely remember reading to my cats, Muffin and Tigger, as I first learned to read. My favorite book just happened to be "The Little Puppy" by Judy Dunn. (I think they liked to hear about other pets.)

When I got a little older, about the age of Burton's students, I liked to read under the bed, especially in winter. I'd curl up with a book and flashlight near the heat vent, which also happened to be Tigger's favorite napping spot. At that point, the books were usually from the "Baby-sitters Club" or "Sweet Valley Twins" series.

Today my cat, Clarissa, is a favorite reading partner, though I don't read out loud to her. I think she just likes to look at the pages, especially when it's a magazine with pictures.

Aren't pets the greatest?

reader COMMENTS

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(5)

h0rselvngrl
Jun 9, 2009 at 10:56 a.m.
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I used to read to my cats when I was little :)

whoanellie
Jun 9, 2009 at 10:43 a.m.
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Our dog loves to just sit on your lap no matter what your doing. He feels like he's part if it if you read to him. Also he really likes shows with other pets on it. we had a grand time watching the dog show this year. he actually thought they were talking to him. Some of his favorite shows: Wishbone, Lassie and that movie with the golden retreiver, Buddy.

Walker
Jun 9, 2009 at 10:29 a.m.
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My cat finds the place to be when I try to read is between the page and my eyes. He just fits in that space.

Glasses are also a cat toy.

sannio
Jun 9, 2009 at 10:16 a.m.
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My cat likes watching new cat and bird videos on YouTube.

SarahB1
Jun 9, 2009 at 8:58 a.m.
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On occasion, I still read aloud to my cat and I am no spring chicken.

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