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Kids Read to Shelter Dogs in the Cutest Volunteer Program Ever
Let’s face it: the thought of countless furry friends waiting for their forever homes can be a real heartbreaker. But one animal shelter in the Midwest is turning that frown upside down with a delightful initiative that brings kids and pups together. The Humane Society of Missouri has launched the Shelter Buddies Reading Program, where youngsters can volunteer to read to dogs who need a little extra TLC.
The Mission Behind the Buddies Program
The mission behind the Buddies program is simple yet effective: help animals become more at ease around strangers, increasing their chances of adoption. Kids aged six to 15 receive training on how to interact with dogs, including reading their body language to spot signs of stress or fear. Once they’re equipped with the know-how, these pint-sized volunteers settle down with books to read to shy or hyperactive pups, rewarding calm behavior with treats.
Program coordinator Lucy Thompson shares with animal advocacy site Pet Whiskers that they wanted to assist their timid and anxious dogs without forcing any physical contact. She notes, “This also brings the animals to the forefront for potential adopters. They’re much more likely to get adopted if they’re engaging rather than cowering in the corner.”
Program Success and Impact
Since launching last Christmas, the program has been a hit, now operating monthly. After completing ten hours of supervised training, kids can return with their parents any time to read to their four-legged friends. It’s not just about the dogs, though; it helps kids cultivate empathy. “They witness fear in these animals and the positive impact they can have,” explains Thompson. “This connection extends to their relationships with both animals and people.”
The enthusiasm for the program is off the charts, and Thompson hopes to expand it to include cats and other shelters across the region. It’s hard to believe similar programs aren’t popping up everywhere else; what could be cuter or more beneficial?
The Importance of Adoption
The ASPCA reports that about 3.9 million dogs enter shelters each year, with only about 1.4 million finding new homes. Many of them are strays returned to their owners, but unfortunately, around 1.2 million don’t get adopted and face euthanasia. Anything that boosts a dog’s chances of finding a loving home is crucial, and the Shelter Buddies program ensures they receive love while waiting. Every pup deserves a safe, forever home, and thanks to this initiative, more are getting their shot at happiness.
Further Reading
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Summary
The Shelter Buddies Reading Program at the Humane Society of Missouri allows kids to read to shelter dogs, helping these animals become more comfortable and increasing their chances of adoption. The program not only benefits the dogs but also teaches children empathy and connection with animals. As the program gains popularity, there are plans for expansion to include more animals and shelters.