Detail of name tags cat named "Brad Pitt" at the Berks County Animal Rescue League in Birdsboro
As a promotion for cat adoption, the Animal Rescue League of Berks County allows adopted cats, such as "Brad Pitt," to be named for Academy Award nominees, as part of "The Book Buddies Program" in Birdsboro, PA on February 11, 2014. Children in grades 1-8 read to the cats as a way to improve their reading skills and gain confidence. The shelter animals can be a non-evaluative presence that can provide support and comfort to participants without judging them. Students showed sustained focus and maintained a higher state of awareness, as well as improved attitudes toward school, according to researchers at Tufts University. Photo taken February 11, 2014. REUTERS/Mark Makela (UNITED STATES - Tags: SOCIETY EDUCATION ANIMALS)