People across the globe are fascinated by the idea of adopting a pet but often are unable to understand what it takes. As a result, many dogs end up getting abandoned or in shelters. The Humane Society of Missouri has come up with an innovative idea to solve this problem and help rehabilitate such dogs.

The Society has started the Shelter Buddies Reading Program with the aim of making this world a better place for these homeless animals. It involves inviting children between the ages of 6 to15 years to read to the shelter dogs. Kids can sign up for the programme online, after which they are trained in a session of about 10 hours over a few days, where they are taught to read a dog's body language and to understand if they are stressed or anxious. Post the training, the young volunteers are encouraged to sit in front of the shy or anxious dog’s kennel and read to him.

Picture Credits: Humane society of Missouri

These children can bring their favourite books to read from or pick one from the extensive animal book themed library at the shelter. Without doubt, this is a mutually beneficial exercise as the children gain a sense of empathy and are also able to hone their reading skills in front of a non-judgmental audience. The dogs, on the other hand, gain comfort through the soothing words in a non-threatening environment which helps rekindle their trust in humans.

The shelter workers are of the opinion that the dogs show signs of interest and curiosity after a few weeks of continuous exposure to reading. When only reading to them does not help, the volunteers toss them treats to arouse curiosity. The programme has shown improvement in timid and high-energy dogs alike.

Picture Credits: Humane society of Missouri

Every year, approximately 2.7 million dogs and cats are killed because shelters are too full and there aren’t enough adoptive homes. Many dogs who reach these shelters are often abused, unloved and depressed. The main aim of this initiative is to make these dogs more adoptable and help them find forever homes. While it has been in existence for a year, the Shelter Buddies Reading Program is gaining a lot of traction in recent times due to the positive results. What’s more, an increasing number of children and adults are showing interest in being part of the programme. If all goes well, the Humane Society plans to launch this programme nationwide with focus on other animals too.