rels, and walk through the woods. The
Jamestown Audubon Society has many
trails and activities for children of all
ages. Membership is inexpensive and
Sundays are free.
Many libraries in Western New
York have programs connecting dogs
to readers. Dogs certainly won’t mind a
stumbled word or slow reading fluency.
Check with your local library, as the
dates can fill up fast.
The Buffalo Zoo offers lots of opportunities
to spend time with animals.
The Cub Club, Little Lions, and various
camps and programs provide opportunities
for animal interaction. Or, simply
strolling through the zoo can calm anxieties
and provide a safe environment to
think and talk.
A Pet Benefits the
Entire Family
Pets aren’t just for the child with
special needs. They help caregivers too.
The study that recognized the positive
effects of dogs mentioned previously in
this article was actually focused on caregivers
of people with special needs. Results
showed dogs had a positive impact
on their lives too, with reduced stress
and more positive interactions within the
family. According to the study a pet is
equally beneficial for the entire family.
Inviting a pet into your home is a
major decision, as Ms. Rose addressed.
However, it’s definitely worth considering.
Whether it’s helping a child socialize,
calming anxieties, or just providing
the excuse to sit and snuggle, a pet can
offer immeasurable love and support.
And who couldn’t use more of that?
Shop, Dine & Enjoy Summer
IN THE VILLAGE OF WILLIAMSVILLE
KIDS TOYS and FASHION on MAIN STREET! WE’RE OPEN!!!
5225 Main Street
633-1966
Claytonstoystore.com
5520 Main Street
632-2246
Pumpkinschildrensclothing.com
5560 Main St. Willamsville
633-2384
Special thanks to Pamela Rose, Web
Services and Library Promotion Coordinator
of the Health Sciences Library at
the University of Buffalo.
Julia Garstecki is a proud momma to a
three-year-old fur baby that has provided
endless love and support to her entire
family. Contact Julia for author visits
or speaking engagements at [email protected].
Follow her on twitter @
juliagarstecki
5385 Main Street
Williamsville, NY 14221
716-817-9559
To Book Food Trucks
Please Email
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www.theCheesyChickBuffalo.com
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July 2020 WNY Family 39