Spreading Goodness Through River: A Conversation with Bethany Van Meter and Her Inspirational Dog
Welcome back to A Good Pour! I’m your host, Kathryn Good, and today I’m excited to introduce Bethany Van Meter, the heart behind Reading with River. If you’re new to this podcast, the way we choose guests is through recommendations from previous guests who are making a difference. Bethany was recommended by Daniel Stevens from Feed Sumner, and today, she’s joined by a very special guest—her dog, River!
This is our first podcast with a dog in the room, and I’ve already admitted to Bethany that I’m not exactly an animal person. But stepping out of my comfort zone to meet River has been a wonderful experience. Let’s dive into the heartwarming story of how River came into Bethany’s life and how he’s spreading joy and important life lessons to kids everywhere.
How It All Started: Bethany and Her Love for Animals
Bethany shared how she’s always had a deep love for animals—so much so that when she was young, she dreamed of a job where she could just hold animals all day! Over the years, she and her husband have rescued countless animals, many with special needs. “It’s been a passion of ours,” Bethany explained. “Helping animals who need a little extra love and care is something that’s always been close to our hearts.”
Then, she shared a particularly tough chapter—losing three of their dogs in a single year. It was devastating, and they decided to take a pause from bringing new animals into their home. But, as often happens in life, fate had other plans. About a year and a half later, Bethany came across a picture of River. The rest, as she says, is history.
River’s Journey from Texas to Tennessee
River’s journey to Bethany started in Texas, where he was rescued as part of an effort to help with the state’s overwhelming stray population. He was in bad shape, suffering from severe eye infections that caused him a great deal of pain. The pressure in his eyes was two and a half times higher than normal, so removing them was necessary to relieve his suffering.
But if you’re worried about River now, don’t be. “People sometimes feel sorry for him,” Bethany said, “but he’s the most spoiled dog you’ll ever meet.” River may be blind, but thanks to Bethany’s love and care, he’s living a happy, fulfilled life—and making a difference wherever he goes.
Spreading Joy and Teaching Important Lessons
After bringing River home, Bethany started sharing his journey on social media—speaking from River’s perspective. “People really got a kick out of it,” she laughed. But it wasn’t just fun; it planted a seed that would grow into something much bigger. With River’s story touching hearts, Bethany was encouraged to write a book. One book turned into a series, with the first one, I See with My Heart, laying the foundation of River’s story and teaching kids that even if someone looks or lives differently, they still have value and purpose.
Since then, Bethany and River have been visiting schools, libraries, and churches, sharing their story and teaching kids life lessons through River’s experiences. Bethany spoke with emotion about how meaningful these visits have been—not just for her, but for the kids they meet. “We’ve connected so deeply with special needs families, and it’s been such a blessing,” she shared.
Lessons from the Heart
When I asked Bethany what she hopes children learn from River’s story, her response was deeply moving. “God is using my dog to teach children that they have value and a purpose,” she said. “Disabilities don’t deter dreams.” Those are the words of a young boy who heard River’s story, and they’ve stuck with Bethany ever since.
Through River, kids are learning to be kind, to understand that everyone has a purpose, and to see beyond outward appearances. “It’s overwhelming to see the goodness that’s being spread through this dog that’s so different,” Bethany said with a smile.
River’s Books: A Tool for Change
Bethany’s books are more than just stories; they’re a tool for spreading kindness and acceptance. With each book, Bethany weaves lessons about friendship, overcoming challenges, and finding your purpose. The second book, I Got a Cat for Christmas, tells the tale of River’s friendship with a cat, showing kids that you can be friends with someone who’s different. The third, River Has a Purpose and So Do You, speaks directly to kids with disabilities, reminding them that they’re just as capable and important as anyone else.
Bethany’s goal is simple: to get River’s story into the hands of as many kids as possible. And it’s already happening. Thanks to local businesses like Foster’s Lawn Care, who donated books to all the Sumner County elementary schools, River’s story is reaching children who need to hear it.
Looking Ahead: Dogs in Schools
One of Bethany’s biggest dreams is to see more therapy and facility dogs in schools. “There’s something special about the presence of a dog in a school environment,” she explained. “The whole atmosphere changes. The kids are calmer, more joyful, and just more connected.” That’s why a portion of the proceeds from River’s books goes toward funding therapy dogs for schools.
I can’t help but admire Bethany’s vision. It’s clear she’s driven by a genuine desire to make the world a better place—one child, one school, and one dog at a time.
Final Thoughts
Bethany, thank you for sharing your heart and River’s story with us today. It’s incredible to see how much joy and kindness you’re spreading through this work. Your dedication to showing kids their value, no matter their circumstances, is inspiring. And River? Well, he’s living proof that being different is a beautiful thing.
If you’d like to support Bethany and River’s mission, check out their website at rivervanmeter.com to learn more about their books and how you can help bring therapy dogs into schools. Together, we can continue to spread love, kindness, and purpose—just like River does every day.