Kizzie Inspires Clark Kids to Hit the Books!

Meet Kizzie Long.

Kizzie is a 4-year-old Doberman Pinscher, with a great love of children. Owner Debbie Long says, "She just can't get enough of kids. She's always loved them."

We met up with Kizzie and Debbie during a recent visit to Miss Elizabeth's second grade class at Clark Elementary.

As soon as Kizzie stepped through the door to the classroom, the children's jaws dropped and their eyes danced. One little boy in the back said in awe, "That's a big dog." Miss Elizabeth, (teacher Elizabeth LeNeave), introduced the class to Kizzie and Debbie, and this visitor was amazed at the quiet, rapt attention from every student.

Debbie told the class that Kizzie was a rescue dog (as the children could read on her shirt – Kizzie's, that is) who had come to live with Debbie in October 2005. It took Kizzie a year before she understood that she was allowed to play. But she had a natural affinity for Debbie's nine grandchildren, and took right to the training to receive her Therapy Dog International certification.

Kizzie was way eager to meet the kids, but first Debbie said, "I want you to remember these two things to say before you approach any dog with its owner: 'Is your dog friendly?' And: 'May I pet your dog?'"

The class repeated the important words. Debbie went on to tell the class more about dog safety.

Then she asked if any one was afraid of dogs. One little girl raised her hand. Debbie suggested that when Kizzie got to her, Miss Elizabeth could stand with her. The little girl nodded OK.

Kizzie and Debbie weaved their way through the rows of desks, getting pats and hugs from each excited student. It was virtually impossible to tell who was having more fun. The kids got to ask questions and talk about dogs they had known. When they got to the little girl who was afraid, she stood behind her teacher. Slowly she reached to pet the Doberman's back. In fewer than 60 seconds, the little girl was giggling and Kizzie was gently nudging her for more pats.

The class broke into reading circles and everyone had a chance to read to Kizzie. Elizabeth LeNeave said that she loves having the dog come to her class. "It's a way for the children to express their sensitivity, and it gives them a purpose for reading. They definitely try harder. For some kids, this is a positive experience they will take with them forever."

One young man said, "She's so nice and gentle," his face beaming. For Debbie, visiting with Kizzie is "my way of giving something back to the community. And I want to give Dobermans a good name. They have such a bad reputation with some people. But I think my Kizzie is the best ambassador there is."

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