Shy children who are reluctant to read before the class can practise in front of dogs selected by the Retired Greyhound Trust.
The project also helps children with autism and learning difficulties and is backed by the National Literacy Trust and the National Autistic Society.
It is based on an American programme called READ that works to improve children's reading and communication skills by employing a registered therapy dog to listen to them read.
Tony Nevetts and his nine-year-old greyhound Scotts have visited schools, children's centres and libraries in Wellingborough, Northants since he launched the voluntary project a year ago.
They work with all children, but focus on those who need help with reading, listening to them read a book in a group or privately to help build the children's confidence.
Mr Nevetts said, 'Greyhounds are very placid dogs and do not judge or criticise children. Stroking Scotts also makes children feel a lot calmer when reading.'
The project focuses on reception classes, but Scotts also joins in rhyme time with pre-school ages.
Oakway Infant School in Wellingborough, which Scotts visits three times a week, reports the greatest improvement in boys who are reluctant to read to the teacher but are happy to read to Scotts.
Headteacher Cheryl Buckle said, 'When Scotts comes into the classroom all the children rush to get their book bags. He's just like another member of staff.'
New recruits Kelly Bakewell and her greyhound Batman will start READ sessions in the Midlands this month.
FURTHER INFORMATION
www.therapyanimals.org
