Dogs are a man’s best friend for a reason. They know us at our worst and at our best and they love us the same no matter what. That’s why they should never be alone and we should never be without a doggo. Unless you are allergic, that’s really your only excuse.
When Sting goes to the library he likes to be read to. That’s what his job is and he loves doing it. He’s a therapy dog who helps children feel more comfortable with reading. He basically sounds like the coolest dog ever.
He’s been doing the “Paws to Read” program for the past few years, which is located in White Bear Lake Library in Minnesota. There he helps 4-8 years olds feel more confident in their reading skills. He sits there as they read aloud to nobody except their ever-listening four-legged friend.
Sadly though, last week nobody came to hang out with Sting. And he was sad.
Apparently February is a slow month according to his handler, John Muellner. Muellner was confident before they went that day that at least a few kiddos would show up.
He told The Dodo:
“I actually knew nobody signed up that afternoon, but Ann the librarian was going to try and drum up some business. And since it’s fairly close to us, I thought why not just go?”
Sadly nobody showed up, but Sting didn’t understand why.
Muellner later posted on Facebook what had happened at the library, but had no idea it would be so viral.
“Unfortunately nobody signed up to read to Sting at the White Bear Lake library tonight. If you know of a 4 to 8yr old who would like to read to a dog. Please contact the White Bear Lake library by phone or their website about the Paws to Read program. Sting will be there Feb 21st 6:30 – 7:30.”
After 23,00 likes, 26,000 comments and 101,000 shares (and growing) it’s safe to say that Muellner guaranteed Sting to have friends for life.
People were going nuts over the post saying things like:
“I wish we were in your state my 4 year old said she would read to him all day long. And sing to him.. sting is precious!!” – Lauren
“Does it have to be a 4-8 year old because this 22 year old will read to the doggo any day of the week.” – Mark
They were even wanting to fly out and read with him!
Muellner went on to say:
“It’s been insane. I guess these days nothing surprises me with the internet. But the amount and with responses worldwide is a bit astounding.”
Sting won’t be having a day off ever again it seems, he’s totally booked for the rest of the month and on now.
Muellner concluded:
“It’s great to see some of them come out of their shell. I mean think about it, when’s the last time you read out loud for 20 minutes?”