NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's the dog days of summer.
Literally. Whether it's summer, winter, spring, or fall, you're almost always guaranteed to see a bunch of pups roaming around a Nashville independent bookstore.
"It's a great place to come and hang out and pet a dog," said Ann Patchett, the owner of Parnassus Books in Green Hills.
Patchett has a full staff — both people and pups.
"We just call it the shop dogs," she said. "And we have a lot of posts on social media about what the dogs are doing, what the shop dogs are reading, the books they enjoy."
There could be anywhere from four to six dogs roaming around any given day. The dogs belong to the staff. Patchett says this is a dog-friendly bookstore.
"You can just come here and hang out," she said. "And the dogs are part of that because people like to come in and just pet a dog for a little while."
Customers can bring their dogs too. Patchett also mentioned the calm, soothing aspect of dogs in a bookstore.
"Kids like to read to the dogs," she said.
She knows not all dogs would be the best fit as a shop dog. Of course, they have to be friendly and know to stay inside with the door constantly opening and closing.
"And it's such a relief when you think, okay, I know you're cute and I know you're sweet, but are you going to be good in the store?" she said. "And then you find out that that dog is good in the store."
Parnassus Books is at 3900 Hillsboro Pike in Nashville.
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It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
