Visitors to the Lower Macungie Township Library recently were in for a treat when they arrived to find therapy dogs Barkley and Murphy waiting for them.

Assistant Director for Youth Services Maureen Rowan organized the event for the library. Rowan noted she works with Lehigh Valley Therapy Dogs and tries to have the dogs visit the library 3-4 times a year. Rowan shared sometimes up to six therapy dogs attend any of the events.

Director of Youth Services Julia Brennan said she stayed after her shift to be able to participate in the event. Visitors were able to relax and enjoy the dogs who love the attention.

Several children selected books to read to the dogs.

Ann Marie Markowitz, owner of therapy dog Barkley, sets up the visits for Lehigh Valley Therapy Dogs. Markowitz explained the therapy dogs are specially trained. The dogs complete obedience training and must be at least 1 year old to participate.

The dogs are observed in two different settings, one of those being a hospital setting and then a second setting. Trainers determine how the dogs interact with others and how they respond to sounds. The dogs are then given a test. The dogs are insured through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs Association. If a dog fails certification, the dog can take the test again; or it can be determined perhaps the dog is not meant to be a therapy dog.

Barkley, named after NFL Eagles Super Bowl Champion Saquon Barkley, is an English Labrador retriever who is almost 8 years old. Barkley loved giving out kisses to anyone who would let him. He enjoyed it when the children read to him.

Owner Charles Kalman described Murphy as a Golden Doodle, part Golden Retriever, part poodle. Children and adults took turns petting Murphy, reading to him and learning about him from his owner.

David Swartzentruber enjoyed reading his book to Murphy while his mom Jenny listened.

Kalman said Murphy’s favorite food is popcorn and his favorite toy is Rudy Raccoon. Murphy is 5 years old but, “he acts like he is a teenager,” Kalman said. Kalman joked sometimes Murphy “doesn’t like to listen and just wants to goof around.”

Rowan shared children can read books to the dogs which helps the children practice their reading, but it also allows them to interact or relax with the dogs who love the attention of others.

“The child has an audience to read to,” Rowan said.

It also provides opportunities for children to get used to dogs. One parent attended and brought her son who has developed a fear of dogs. “This is the kind of setting that is perfect to help him get used to dogs and not be so afraid,” she said.

Residents interested in attending a future event with the therapy dogs can contact the Lower Macungie Library or check the library website for future dates.