Local school children are learning compassion while improving their reading skills through an innovative new program with animals at the Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter.
Hawkesbury Community Outreach Services (HCOS) launched a four-week pilot program in conjunction with the shelter last month that saw Year 3 to 6 students from Bilpin Public School allocated a furry friend they then keep company by reading a book.
Initiated by HCOS member Dannii Warner, the Creating Compassionate Kids- Shelter Buddies Program was a barking success, with shining reviews from teachers, shelter staff, children, and – from what was observed – the animals.
Miss Warner said the main goals of the program were to encourage empathy and compassion in children, help comfort shy and fearful dogs to try and ease their anxiety, and get shelter dogs adopted quickly.
The children were able to learn about and read dog body language as well as gaining an understanding of the shelter procedures.
Shelter staff member Teresa worked closely with the children, educating them on microchipping, registration, behaviours, and the need to rescue and adopt if you are considering getting an animal, Miss Warner said.
“It was a truly heart-warming experience to be part of and the animals really deserve this type of enrichment,” she said.
“I am so happy that HCOS was able to collaborate with the shelter and school to implement this program.”
The children had fun making such a positive difference in the dogs’ lives, with research surrounding animal therapy suggesting positive changes to both children and animals alike.
The children also provided the dogs with positive reinforcement in the form of appropriate treats after their reading sessions, Miss Warner said.
Miss Warner thanked all the children who participated in the trial, saying they had done “an amazing job”.
“Seeing the children realise that they can make a difference in the animals lives is really important. As an individual we can all make a difference when we think outside ourselves,” she said.
It is hoped other school children will join in the venture and continue the program.
The next program will commence after summer and/or renovations to the shelter, as there is currently no shelter in the corridors for readers.
A small bookshelf and some animal/nature/environment-themed books are currently being sought to kick off the library area at the shelter with good quality donations appreciated.
Those interested in reading – or donating – can contact Dannii Warner on 4573 2292 to find out the next available dates.