The Virginia Beach SPCA’s Listening Ears program helps third-grade students build reading confidence while strengthening the connection between people and animals.

Reading aloud can feel intimidating for students who are worried about making mistakes or being judged by their peers. Animals offer something different: a calm, patient, and nonjudgmental audience. By reading to a companion animal, students are encouraged to relax, build confidence, and enjoy the reading experience at their own pace.

Research has long shown that interaction with animals can help reduce stress, improve mood, and encourage social connection. Listening Ears brings those benefits into the school setting by pairing students with trained VBSPCA volunteer and animal teams who serve as supportive reading companions.

In 2006, the Virginia Beach SPCA’s Listening Ears program received the Virginia State Reading Association Literacy Award, recognizing outstanding achievement in support of literacy.

How the Program Works

Listening Ears is designed for groups of six third-grade students. Each student is paired with the same VBSPCA volunteer throughout the program, helping create familiarity and continuity.

The program is offered in six-week sessions during the school year. Students participate in 15-minute reading sessions, with books provided by the school. Sessions typically take place in a quiet, low-traffic area such as the school library.

VBSPCA volunteers are there to encourage students and assist as needed. All participating volunteers complete a standard national background check.

Our Animal Reading Partners

Listening Ears animals may include approved volunteer-owned pets, VBSPCA shelter dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, or other companion animals appropriate for the program.

All participating dogs are current on vaccinations, and every animal involved in Listening Ears has been approved for safe interaction with children.

School Participation

Listening Ears is offered at no cost to participating schools thanks in part to grant funding that supports VBSPCA humane education programs.

A signed parent or guardian Permission and Liability Waiver is required for every participating student before the first session. Participating teachers and students are also asked to complete brief pre- and post-program surveys. These assessments help us measure the program’s impact and provide outcomes required by our grant funders.

Schools are never required to make a donation to participate, although fundraising efforts or donations benefiting the animals of the Virginia Beach SPCA are always appreciated.

Listening Ears sessions are available Tuesday through Friday during designated program periods throughout the school year. Schools interested in participating can complete the request form below. A member of the Virginia Beach SPCA Humane Education team will follow up regarding availability and scheduling.