LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - Dogs are helping kids learn how to read in Mid-Michigan schools through a program that pairs struggling readers with four-legged tutors who never judge a mistake.

Lolie Fabela walks the halls of Waverly East Elementary School with her dog Buddy, visiting classrooms to give students what she calls “a new leash on learning.”

Buddy is trained to sit, stay and listen as students read aloud to him. The boxer holds book pages under his paw while children read.

“The kids think that’s amazing that Buddy’s helping them read,” Fabela said. “Next thing you know they’re reading.”

Fabela said the approach works because the dogs provide comfort without criticism.

“He’s not going to walk away from them, he’s not going to make fun of them, he doesn’t bully,” said Fabela, found

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