A child sits beside a volunteer dog, engrossed in reading. [Photo/Tide News]

Ningbo Library in Ningbo, Zhejiang province teamed up with a pet studio to launch a reading program at a local school on April 22 to enhance the reading experience of children with special needs by introducing volunteer dogs as companions.

During the event, Ningbo Library presented a curated selection of books suitable for children with special needs, including general knowledge books and fairy tales. These books, adorned with vibrant illustrations and written using simple language, are tailored to cater to the needs of exceptional children, making reading more accessible and enjoyable for them.

Accompanied by volunteer dogs named Panghu, Zaizai, and Mini, the books were distributed to children at Jinghe School in Zhenhai district. Children were delighted by the presence of the furry companions. As they flipped through the pages, the volunteer dogs sat calmly beside them, fostering a warm and supportive environment for reading.

"The reading program is an innovative reading promotion project. Through the form of canine companionship, we hope to help special groups develop an interest in reading and cultivate reading habits," said a staff member at the Ningbo Library.

"It is very meaningful. Our children have certain deficiencies in interpersonal communication and emotional stability. Reading with volunteer dogs not only helps improve their attention span but also puts them at ease," said Wang Hongbo, principal of the school.

Wang added that they would implement the program into school activities.