There’s nothing like that the bond between a child and a dog. It’s adorable to see kids and dogs interact, as they both share a similar sense of innocence that warms the heart.

Now, a program has been set up in Missouri that allows kids to help dogs in a uniquely cute way.

The “Shelter Buddies” program involves having kids go to animal shelters to read to the dogs that live there. The program is meant to benefit both the children and the dogs: it helps the kids improve their reading abilities and social skills, and it has been shown that it also helps reduce the anxiety of the dogs.

The dogs love the attention the children give them, and being able to interact with the canines while they do it helps the kids love reading even more! The program has been especially beneficial for shelter dogs who are not comfortable around children. Dogs who have been abused often end up being scared of people in general, so interacting with the kind and gentle children lets them know that they can be safe around humans.

The Missouri Humane Society has praised the program and is hoping that it will be so successful that other states will start doing it as well. It’s so heartwarming to see that there’s a program that is helping both children and dogs at the same time!

Find out more about this program in the video below, and SHARE this story so your friends and family can see this as well!