An animal shelter in Michigan says it received an "overwhelming response" from the community after inviting kids to read to the dogs and cats in its care as part of the READing Paws program.
An animal shelter in Michigan says it received an "overwhelming response" from the community after inviting kids to read to the dogs and cats in its care as part of the READing Paws program.
It's a classic win-win scenario for kids and pets alike. Kids get to practice their literacy skills, while the soothing, quiet attention can have a significant calming effect on the pets.
"The shelter environment can be overwhelming for many pets, we have found reading to our residents reduces anxiety and creates a calming environment," they wrote in a Facebook post asking for readers to come out.
Of course, kids are also welcome to bring their own favorites to read to the doggies and the kitties. They just have to have a parent or guardian along with them.
The 45-minute slots filled up fast — kids just want to read to pets!
Here's hoping all the readers and animals in need find time for each other!
As the post spread on Facebook, offers of books came in, and teachers and groups like Girl Scouts troops expressed interest in bringing their charges in to read with the animals as well.
But the good news is that READing Paws, which has a stated mission of helping young readers develop their literacy skills with the assistance of therapy animals, has groups and events all over the country.
I wonder if anywhere does likewise for grown-ups who just want to read to dogs?
h/t: WLIX