Brandy and Val

So this past week we began our pet therapy sessions working back at the special needs school with autistic children.  It was good to see so many of the same faces and we felt immediately comfortable back with them in the classroom.   For those who have some form of autism along the spectrum, having a routine is comforting and so everyone responded well to seeing our familiar faces and wagging tales!  That they remembered us and were not afraid to see us was a promising start.

This year, we hope to encourage and develop more language skills and the teachers were nice enough to provide mom and dad with a sheet of pictographs they can use as guides.  On each sheet there are several pictures with commands/words and hand signals the children can use with us.  For example, “sit,” “down,” “walk,” “stay,” and “treat” are very popular words chosen.  We are happy to oblige, especially when it comes to receiving treats.  Some of the more advanced students know states and one of the classrooms has a big carpet with a map of the U.S. .  The states are also colored so not only can we walk to certain states but they can also be identified by color.  So, the kids learn geography, color and get a chance to move around with us.  Then they get to feed us a treat which helps their motor skills.

During the course of the school year, we’ll give updates on everyone’s progress.

Our cup runneth over this past month with great press, and, why not?  Brandy and Val, two real rescue dogs, have great stories to tell and causes to support that benefit children and animals.  Our whimsical children’s educational book series and stuffed animal likenesses are great fun for pre-schoolers.  Our downloadable discussion guide is chock full of lively topics that parents and teachers can use to make Brandy and Val a learning tool, too!

So, without further delay, we invite you to watch our most recent TV segment spotlighting Val on the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and read about what makes Brandy and Val, the books AND the dogs so special!

Woman’s World Magazine 8/23/10

NBC5 Chicago 6 p.m. newscast 8/30/10

Chicago Tribune 8/25/10

Associated Content Book List 8/25/10

TLC Animal Services 9/14/10

Thank you for your support of Brtandy and Val, Real Dogs with Real Tales books and toys. Give them as gifts that truly give back.

Ilene Fine, Author

Brandy and Val

Brandy and Val’s Favorite Things

Brandy and Val’s Special Story

We bet there’s a little person in there zipped up in a dog suit!