
Research shows reading can have a calming effect on shelter animals! Rescue Readers is a one-hour program for all readers, where participants read to the animals in our adoption centers. Readers provide soothing company to dogs, cats, and critters as they await adoption.
As a bonus, new readers gain confidence and improve their reading skills. Both adults and children are welcome to become Rescue Readers.
Orientation
Are you new to Rescue Readers? All participants must watch the free Rescue Readers orientation video prior to attending a reading session. The video covers the goals of the program, animal body language, and important safety precautions. You can watch the video at any time, and it’s a great resource to revisit if you ever need a refresher.
If you haven't watched the video before arriving at your reading session, you can scan a QR code at the shelter to watch it on your phone. However, please note that you will not be able to begin reading until you've completed the video, and this will reduce your overall reading time.
A parent or guardian is expected to be present with underage readers for the entirety of the program. We cannot accommodate non-reader siblings or other non-reader youth at reading sessions. When registering, register the reader(s) only (adults don't pay unless they plan to be readers, too; and readers of all ages are welcome!).
Watch orientation video
Reading session details
Reading sessions are one hour in length and cost $10 per session. Sessions are held at all three Animal Humane Society shelter locations. Underage readers must be accompanied by an adult for the entirety of the program. Adults need not register themselves unless they plan to read as well.
- Saturday, March 8 | 9-10 AM, 10:30-11:30 AM
- Saturday, March 15 | 1-2 PM, 2:30-3:30 PM
- Tuesday, March 18 | 5:30-6:30 PM
- Tuesday, April 1 | 5:30-6:30 PM
- Saturday, April 12 | 1-2 PM, 2:30-3:30 PM
- Tuesday, April 14 | 5:30-6:30 PM
- Tuesday, May 6 | 5:30-6:30 PM
- Saturday, May 17 | 1-2 PM, 2:30-3:30 PM
Looking for more dates? Rescue Readers who have attended Orientation may login to view all available reading sessions.
- Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 PM
- Wednesday, March 26 | 6-7 PM
Looking for more dates? Rescue Readers who have attended Orientation may login to view all available reading sessions.
- Tuesday, March 18 | 6-7 PM
- Saturday, March 22 | 10:30-11:30 AM
- Tuesday, April 22 | 6-7 PM
- Saturday, April 26 | 10:30-11:30 AM
- Saturday, May 24 | 10:30-11:30 AM
- Tuesday, May 27 | 6-7 PM
- Tuesday, June 24 | 6-7 PM
- Saturday, June 28 | 10:30-11:30 AM
Looking for more dates? Rescue Readers who have attended Orientation may login to view all available reading sessions.
Registration
Prior to registering, please review our education program policies and FAQ for our cancellation policy, behavior guidelines, and more.
Interested in a private Rescue Readers session?
AHS offers private Rescue Readers sessions for a minimum of 10 people. These sessions include an in-person orientation, brief tour of the adoption center, and an hour of reading time.
Cost: $160 for up to 10 people; $15 for each incremental person beyond 10.