Specially trained volunteers and their companion dogs will visit schoolchildren to help improve their literacy, confidence and communication skills, as part of an innovative scheme launched in Pembrokeshire this week.

Burns ‘By Your Side’ is the latest venture from the Burns Pet Nutrition Foundation, a charitable trust set up by Kidwelly-based Burns Pet Nutrition.

As well as being fun, reading to companion dogs gives children comfort, encourages positive behaviour and motivates speech and reading.

The Literacy Trust’s 2013 paper on literacy levels and child poverty in the UK claims that one in six children struggles to read and write. The therapeutic effect of a child reading to a dog results in a less stressed, less self conscious and more confident child, particularly if they have difficulties with communication or reading out loud.

In conjunction with the Kennel Club Safe and Sound scheme, Burns By Your Side will also train schoolchildren to respect and care for companion animals, and be safe around pets.

Burns by Your Side is recruiting volunteers and their companion dogs for this special scheme. More information is available for potential volunteers and interested schools by visiting www.burnsbyyourside.org