Girls Inc debuts D.O.G. program

Girls Inc. of Sarasota County debuts its innovative program, D.O.G., this week. D.O.G. stands for Donte’s Orientation Guide and is a program aimed to reduce dog bites and traumatic dog encounters among young children.

The program is co-sponsored by Donte’s Den and consists of two classroom sessions, take-home materials and a visit from a therapy dog. Third and fourth grade girls will be the first to take the program starting this week.

Kay Mathers of Girls Inc. says the program is important because young children have a higher risk for dog bites due to their friendly and energetic approach to animals.

D.O.G. will help children learn how to read dog reactions and “diffuse potential harmful situations in a fun and meaningful way,” says facilitator Pamela Sennott. “At this age, children can learn to avoid becoming traumatized and even bitten by dogs in a neighborhood or family setting.”

To contact Harriet Sokmensuer, please email [email protected].