Kids read to dogs through new Dallas Animal Services program
This past week, young volunteers from Townview Magnet Center and Dallas Christian Academy donated their time by reading to shelter dogs at Dallas Animal Services (DAS).
This new program, Kids Reading to Dogs, helps introduce shy, adoptable pets to non-threatening humans while giving kids the opportunity to learn to read in a non-intimidating environment.
During last week’s event, the groups of students read Dr. Seuss books to dogs in honor of the popular children’s authors’ birthday.
“The program encourages kids to read out loud. After all, the dogs don’t laugh if they make a mistake,” DAS Division Manager Jody Jones said. “It also helps bring shy dogs out of their shell by having kids sit in front of them and spend time reading to them. Shy dogs can often seem reclusive and this program helps socialize the animal, which increases their chances of getting adopted.”
Kids Reading to Pets is made possible by Dallas Animal Services new volunteer program. Tisha Hood, program coordinator hopes to recruit more school groups interested in being part of the program.
“We thoroughly enjoyed having the kids here. The kids loved it. The dogs loved it. It was a win-win for everyone. There is nothing as heartwarming as watching a child sit and read out loud to a homeless pet,” Jones added.
If interested in participating in or finding out more about Kids Reading to Pets contact program coordinator Teisha Hood at [email protected].
