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by Dana Tozzi (Author)
Enzo's First Day on the Job is a heartwarming true story about one little therapy dog, one very exciting school visit, and the remarkable difference a gentle paw can make.
Enzo is a lovable ten pound apricot toy poodle with a very important purpose. As a therapy dog, he brings comfort, happiness, and extra love to people who may feel worried, lonely, sad, sick, or overwhelmed. Enzo loves his volunteer work, but today is especially exciting because he is going to a school for the very first time!
After eating a big breakfast and making sure his special bag is packed, Enzo arrives at school bursting with excitement. With his tail wagging and his heart pounding, he is ready to meet the students and teach them all about the important work therapy dogs do.
From kindergarten through fourth grade, Enzo visits classroom after classroom. He meets curious children, demonstrates some of his special skills, gives out trading cards, and happily accepts gentle pats from students and teachers. Some children are excited and full of questions. Others are quiet or shy. No matter who he meets, Enzo has a special way of making everyone feel comfortable, included, and loved.
During one particularly meaningful classroom visit, Enzo meets children who may not use many words to communicate. Their faces light up when they see him, showing that kindness and connection can be shared in many different ways. The students even surprise Enzo by wishing him a happy birthday!
Before leaving school, Enzo makes one final stop at the main office. There, he notices a teacher who appears sad and stressed. Enzo immediately knows it is time to do what he does best. With his calm presence, soft fur, and loving nature, he helps her relax, breathe more slowly, and smile again.
By the time Enzo returns home, he is tired from his busy day. As he curls up in bed surrounded by his favorite toys, he remembers all the children, teachers, questions, hugs, smiles, and gentle pats. Being a therapy dog is a big responsibility for such a little pup, but helping people feel happy, calm, safe, and loved makes Enzo's heart feel full.
Written by educator Dana Tozzi and inspired by Enzo's real first school visit, this sweet and educational children's book introduces young readers to the meaningful work performed by therapy dogs and their handlers. Through Enzo's joyful adventure, children will learn about empathy, compassion, volunteering, emotional support, and the importance of treating working animals with kindness and respect.
Perfect for classrooms, school libraries, counselors, therapy programs, dog lovers, and families, Enzo's First Day on the Job reminds readers that no one is ever too small to make a big difference.
