Bentley, a reading pal and therapy dog at Emma Roberson Elementary School, was recognized at the Granbury ISD school board meeting on June 20, 2011, for completing his therapy dog certification.

Almost two years old, the English Mastiff dog has become a fixture at the school and visited with students on Mondays and Fridays during the school year.  Bentley regularly makes appearances in classrooms and lends an ear while students are reading.

Principal Kellie Lambert says that Bentley’s calm demeanor makes him ideal for serving as a therapy dog.  In addition to Roberson Elementary, the dog has also visited local nursing homes and other schools.

For certification through Therapy Dogs International, a dog must master several commands and meet health and safety criteria.  The fifteen tests include a positive reaction to children, being welcome groomed, coming when called, sitting politely for petting.