PUTNAM COUNTY – Practicing reading with dogs builds confidence because, unlike parents and teachers, a dog does not correct you.  Hudson Valley Pause for a Cause is working with libraries in western Putnam and southern Dutchess counties by bringing dogs to special sessions, allowing children to read either words or pictures in a relaxing and rewarding atmosphere.

A session took place Saturday at the Howland Library in Beacon, with additional get-togethers planned for Oct. 8 at the Desmond-Fish Public Library in Garrison, and Oct. 20 at the Butterfield Library in Cold Spring.

Meanwhile, a two-year-old Golden Retriever has warmed the hearts of children and adults alike at the Putnam Valley Elementary School.

Mason, a facility dog trained by Blue Path Service Dogs, joined the school family recently and, according to Principal Margaret Podesta, has become a “loved and valuable part of our Putnam Valley Elementary learning community.”

The canine and its handler, Alex Gofman, visit classrooms, meeting with students on a regular basis, as well as being on call whenever a crisis may unfold.

Podesta admitted that the school was “very fortunate.”

“We can’t begin to thank BluePath Service Dogs, our district administrators, especially Assistant Superintendent Jackie Levine and Superintendent Jeremy Luft, in addition to the Board of Education, for supporting this amazing initiative. Mason has bonded beautifully with his primary handler, Mr. Gofman, and his family as well,” she said.

The addition was made possible through a grant written by Levine and funded by the Putnam Valley Education Foundation — whose support brings innovative ideas to life for Putnam Valley students.

Blue Path Service Dogs, located in Wappingers Falls, also provides autism service dogs, offering safety, companionship, and opportunities for independence. Its vision is to be the definitive leader in service dog provision, transforming the lives of individuals, families, and communities.



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