Shelter life is never easy for dogs. It doesn’t matter if they stay for a long or brief period – all dogs end up experiencing stress and loneliness. Shelter animals find it hard to deal with being alone inside their kennels, the noise from other dogs, and other factors that affect their state of being.
Good thing some amazing individuals dedicate their time to ease the stress off the poor shelter dogs. In Carson Animal Shelter in California, one boy volunteers to be with the stressed dogs. Born with autism, Jacob Tukuman from La Habra, California is a little too familiar with sadness and stress.
Thinking about how the poor dogs go through trauma and depression, Jacob thought of a way to help the shelter animals. Once a week, the energetic boy would bring his trusty mat and books with him and visit Carson Animal Shelter. He would then proceed to read stories to some of the shelter dogs.
Every Thursday, the dogs would look forward to storytime with Jacob. Particularly, there’s one sad Pit Bull who would enjoy the kid’s company. Called Pirate, this dog is described by volunteers as one of the shelter’s most aloof residents. He would sulk in the corner of his kennel and would refuse interaction.
All that changed when he met Jacob. One day the boy just sat in front of Pirate’s kennel and started reading a book to him. The curious Pit Bull took notice and slowly warmed up to him. The old, shy Pirate now warms up to the volunteers. He is also surprisingly calm and friendly to visiting families looking for dogs to adopt.
The volunteers credit Jacob and his weekly storytelling sessions for Pirate’s socializing growth. According to Jacob’s aunt, Lisa Ferranti, who also volunteers at the shelter, his time spent with the dogs also improved Jacob’s well-being. As for Pirate, he is now waiting for a family that will adopt him. Thanks to Jacob, he also learned to open up to others who are ready to help and love him!
credits: NBC Los Angeles
