At an animal shelter in Spain, kids are learning lessons in kindness by spending time with gentle greyhounds.

The shelter, called SOS Galgos, is devoted mostly to one breed of dog. Greyhounds are known as racing dogs in some parts of the world. In Spain, where they’re called galgos, they are often used as hunting dogs. Sadly, they are sometimes abandoned after they reach a certain age. SOS Galgos takes in and finds new homes for these greyhounds.

The shelter also works with schools, inviting students to visit and spend time with the dogs. The cost is six euros (about $6.50) per child, and all the money is used to support the shelter’s work.

During a two-hour session, kids learn how the dogs are cared for in the shelter and how SOS Galgos finds new homes for them. Greyhounds are known for their quiet and gentle personalities. Many greyhounds dislike loud noises and rough play, so it’s important to be calm around them. Spending time with animals that depend on humans is a great way to learn about kindness and sympathy.

“Children who have not had any contact with the animal world…leave here excited and happy that they have touched a dog,” Sara Cadenas, who is in charge of the school program, told Reuters.