The Leader-Telegram had a relatively large article yesterday devoted to a local German shepherd named “Klaus” who can read. Doesn’t sound all that amazing until you realize that Klaus is not a European who herds sheep for a living, he’s a dog. But maybe you already assumed that. Anyway, that goll dang dog can read. Sort of. From Christina O'Brien’s article:

• Parr held up another red card with the word "shake" on it.
• "What does this one say?" she asked the shepherd, who paused to glance back at Kinderman two or three times before sitting back and holding up his right paw.
• "You're such a good boy," Parr cooed, as she slipped him a treat and held up another card with the words "high five" written on it.

There’s more to the story, of course. Such as the dog isn’t reading so much as getting visual signals, but who cares? Also, the dog has an interesting history with its owners. Looks like a pretty cool pooch.

In related news, Wisconsin ACT scores hold steady for the third year in a row.