A Missouri dog shelter has started a special ‘buddies’ program that pairs school-age children to fearful dogs. In the scheme, children sit in front of the dog’s kennel and read to them from a book.
The program directors hope that the scheme will help prepare fearful dogs for life in a “forever home”.
“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,” program director Jo Klepacki told The Dodo.
“Ideally, that shy and fearful dog will approach and show interest. If so, the kids reinforce that behaviour by tossing them a treat.”
Klepacki says that the scheme encourages shy dogs to come to the front of the kennels which improves their chance of finding a home.
“They are more likely to get adopted if they are approaching and interacting, rather than hiding in the back or cowering,” she explains.
Children in the program complete a 10-hour training program to help them read a dog’s body language.
The scheme gives children a chance to practice their reading, but more importantly it helps to instil a sense of empathy.
“They’re seeing fearfulness in these animals, and seeing the positive effect they can have,” said Klepacki.
“It encourages them to look at things from an animal’s perspective. That helps them better connect with animals and people in their lives.”
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