The owners of a book store in Connecticut have donated an entire reading room and converted it into a kid and pet-friendly haven where children, 6 to 8, can go once a week and read stories to dogs. One of the volunteers who runs the program says that the purpose is to connect a child with a "non-judgemental listener" who can help children gain confidence in reading.
Chloe, a 7 year old girl reading "Beauty and the Beast" to a French bulldog, said she loves it "because dogs are cuddly" and "they are more patient than people." Another little girl said that is better to read to a dog "because the dog really listens to you."
The dogs are certified by the National Delta Society's Animal Assisted Therapy program.
The idea has become so well received that many other towns are considering starting their own programs.