Plenty of hugs -- and licks -- at Taylor Parks Elementary during Fur Angels' visit

There's nothing like a nice dog to help ease a pupil into the right frame of mind to learn. Once a month, Taylor Parks Elementary School is visited by none other than the Fur Angels, a non-profit organization that offers "compassion and unconditional love" through pet therapy.

The angels, a volunteer group, train their own dogs to succeed in the organization's mission. All dogs are highly evaluated and temperament-tested. They have to pass tests like "Canine Good 
Citizen" and "Beautiful Therapy Dog Certification" before becoming part of the Fur Angels program.

In other words, they have to earn their wings!

The dogs create an atmosphere where pupils are comfortable to read -- a positive, non-intimidating and fun environment. That way, a child can gain confidence despite the fact that they might be struggling with new words.

The program has been a big motivator to encourage better reading skills and puts more confidence in pupils.

The Fur Angels work with the Taylor schools, visit public libraries, nursing homes, hospitals, etc. Just petting a dog has been proven to lift spirits and provide medical benefits -- like lowering blood pressure.