Read Across America Week kicks off soon and the Burlington County Animal Shelter is getting in on the fun!
The shelter is inviting children to bring their favorite book to the shelter at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton this Sunday, March 2, for a special Read Across America Book Reading event. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, participating children will get opportunities to read some of their favorite books to shelter dogs and cats while also interacting with shelter staff and volunteers dressed as favorite storybook characters.
Burlington County Commissioner Tyler J. Burrell said the event is a great way for children to practice reading and learn about the shelter and its animals.
“Reading is key to developing a lifelong love of learning and inviting children to practice reading to the dogs and cats at the shelter is another way to make it fun and exciting for them,” said Commissioner Burrell, the liaison to the animal shelter. “Studies show that reading aloud to animals can boost children’s confidence and their reading proficiency, and the interactions can also help some of the shy dogs and cats become more acclimated to people and children.”
Dogs and cats will remain safely behind glass enclosures during the reading sessions. Families will be encouraged to take photos of their favorite animals to share on social media.
Sunday’s reading event was inspired by a group of 5th grade students from Mount Laurel’s Hartford School who visited the shelter in December to read to some of the dogs and cats. The group, known as the Hartford Hounds 4 Hounds, also collected pet toys, dog and cat food, blankets and monetary donations to give to the shelter. More than $600 in donations were collected by the group.
“The Mount Laurel school’s visit was a big success, and the shelter is hoping for more of the same on Sunday,” said Burrell. “It’s a great idea that can help encourage more children to read and also find forever homes for some great dogs and cats.”
Photos and information about dogs and carts available for adoption or fostering can be found on the shelter’s webpage at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/1446/Available-for-Adoption
Can’t make it to Sunday’s event? The Burlington County Library System also hosts regular Read to the Dog sessions at branch libraries featuring trained therapy dogs. Visit the BCLS website athttps://www.bcls.lib.nj.us/ for upcoming dates and registration information.