Majestic fawn-colored Great Dane Apollo sitting regally with a calm, noble expression
2 photos of Apollo
Apollo
Handler: Jennifer Walsh
A majestic Great Dane with a heart of gold. Despite his size, Apollo is the gentlest giant in the program.
Apollo's Story
Apollo's journey to Paws & Pages began at an unusual place: a community theater. Handler Jennifer Walsh, a retired drama teacher, adopted Apollo as a puppy and brought him to rehearsals. The enormous Great Dane developed a peculiar habit of lying completely still during performances, as if understanding the importance of being a good audience member. Children from the youth theater program would gather around Apollo during breaks to read their lines aloud, finding comfort in his unblinking attention and regal composure. When Jennifer heard about Paws & Pages, Apollo seemed custom-made for the role. At 5 years old and standing nearly three feet tall at the shoulder, Apollo proves that the biggest hearts often come in the biggest packages.
A Heart-Warming Moment
Six-year-old Mia was terrified of dogs after a childhood incident. Her parents were skeptical when her teacher suggested Paws & Pages, but Mia's reading anxiety was severe. The solution came unexpectedly: Mia agreed to try ONE session if she could stay far away from the dog. Jennifer positioned Apollo across the room, lying majestically on his cushion. Mia sat 20 feet away and began reading. 'Is he even real?' Mia whispered. 'He's SO still.' Week by week, Mia's reading spot inched closer. By month three, she was reading while sitting next to Apollo. By month six, she was leaning against his warm side. 'Apollo's my reading dinosaur,' she told her parents proudly. 'He's big but not scary-big. He's cozy-big.' Mia now asks to pet every calm dog she meets.
Ready to meet Apollo?
Apollo and Jennifer Walsh are available for reading sessions at participating libraries. Sign up today to experience the magic of reading with a furry friend!
Questions About Our Program?
We'd love to tell you more about how our therapy dogs help children become confident readers.