Reading to pets is a very rewarding activity for kids and pets alike!
Your child can improve their literacy and help shelter pets relax and socialize through our reading programs. Children and young teens from ages 5 to 13 are invited to “Paws and Read” with our adoptable cats and small companion animals. This is a free program - simply sign up for a session below, check-in when you arrive, and start reading!
How To Participate
Families can sign up for a 20-minute reading session on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm and Fridays from 2:00 pm-5:00 pm*. We encourage you to bring your favorite book from home or borrow one from our selection. Staff will help decide which pet you would like to sit with, and then you will have 20 minutes to read to them.
For safety reasons, there must be one parent or guardian present to supervise a reading group of up to two children.
*Due to the size of our facility and capacity restrictions, AWLA has the right to turn away families during peak adoption periods to ensure potential adopters are able to view the animals. For these reasons, we are also unable to accommodate large groups for our Paws & Read program. If you would like to bring a large group to visit, we highly recommend setting up a tour with our Youth Programs Coordinator!
Paws & Read Challenge
On your first visit, you can choose a bookmark that will be stamped at after each Paws & Read visit. When you complete 12 visits, your child will get the honor of naming a kitten or small companion animal!
If you have any questions about the Paws and Read program, please contact the shelter at 703.931.9241 or mradford@awla.org.
AWLA's Paws & Read Program is sponsored by Amazon.
Thank you to Tails that Teach for supporting our Paws & Read program! Each child who reads to our animals may receive a copy of "Love me Gently" or "Gray Whiskers" at no cost.
