Children Read Books To Traumatized Shelter Dogs To Help Rehabilitate Them

The Missouri Humane Society’s Shelter Buddies Reading Program is an amazing program that pairs kids ages 6 to 15 with scared and traumatized dogs. They are trying to prepare these dogs for adoption. After the children complete a 10-hour training program, they sit in front of a dog’s kennel and read to them.

In an interview with The Dodo program director Jo Klepacki said "We wanted to help our shy and fearful dogs without forcing physical interaction with them to see the positive effect that could have on them. Reading to the dogs helps to bring comfort to and reduce the anxiety of shelter pets. Ideally that shy and fearful dog will approach and show interest. If so, the kids reinforce that behavior by tossing them a treat. When children tell stories to the dogs, it also helps them develop their own reading skills.” The project also “nurtures empathy in children” and “teaches high energy dogs that calm behavior is desirable.”