第三节：七选五（每题2分）

　　With time going on, dogs have developed a special relationship with people. Recently, however, some dogs have taken a different role in people's lives - therapy dogs.

　　 1 Some therapy dogs visit patients in hospitals or nursing homes, while others visit children in schools and libraries. They are there to help children become better readers.

　　Reading programs that use therapy dogs have been in existence for more than ten years. All therapy dogs of this program are registered with an organization that tests the dogs to make sure they have the right personality for the job.

　　 2 Both the dogs and the handlers are volunteers with the reading program.

　　At the start of a reading therapy session, a child and a dog are introduced. The pair is allowed to settle down in a quiet corner together. 3 An adult handler stays nearby but generally lets the dog perform its job without being interrupted. Sometimes, a handler may ask a question that encourages the child to work with the dog to help the child feel more comfortable.

　　Not every child will be able to be part of a reading therapy program that uses dogs. A few children might be allergic to dogs or afraid of them; some children might have cultural traditions that prevent them from touching a dog. 4

　　Reading therapy programs inspire learning and change for human beings. The readers benefit a lot, gaining confidence and learning that reading aloud can be a relaxing experience.

　　 5 They spend time with human friends. For dogs that love human companionship and a quiet place to rest, being part of a reading therapy program can be a great way to spend a few hours being with humans each day.

　　 A. As the child reads, the dog usually lies quietly and listens.

　　 B. A dog's handler also takes a class and must pass a test to work in the therapy program.

C. When reading to an animal, some children may become relaxed.