Many shelters are overcrowded, and if their canines do not find homes within the specified period, they are euthanized.
The “timid” or “unfriendly” temperament of many shelter dogs is one of the main reasons they do not find homes. These dogs have had their pasts marred by cruelty, neglect, or deprivation, making it even more difficult for them to emerge from their shells.
The Humane Society of Missouri has developed a program to help shelter dogs get the best socialization possible! The “Shelter Buddies Reading Initiative” is a one-of-a-kind program that allows youngsters aged six to fifteen to read to and train shelter canines!
This program’s first few sessions have been really excellent. Positive behavior reinforcement is promoted and the timid dogs feel safe and accepted when the children read in soothing accents and interact with the pets. The students learn the intricacies of a shelter dog’s body language as the dogs become more outgoing and “adoptable.” It’s a win-win situation!
The shelter now incorporates this reading practice into their yearly Christmas celebrations as a result of the program’s success. “Deck The Howls” is a Christmas event themed on adoption greeting cards, where kids may manufacture treats for their new furry friends. It would be fantastic if more animal shelters offered similar programs for “unwanted” pets.
In the video below, the kids are charming as they bond with the lonely shelter canines!
