Do you have a young reader who loves animals? Every Tuesday through August 25, children can participate in Fairfax County’s Paws & Read program.
Held at Fairfax County Animal Services’ Lorton campus, Paws & Read lets kids tackle their summer reading lists while spending time reading to adoptable cats. Kids can also choose to read to other small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, and birds.
Paws & Read was started after the success of the FCAS Reading Tails program. During that program, groups can visit the shelter, take a guided tour, and also read to cats and small animals. FCAS staff saw shy readers open up, more energetic children settle in, and animals relish the individualized attention.
Paws and Read is meant for individual families and not designed for summer camps or groups. There is a maximum of six people per group, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
After checking in at a welcome table, children can grab a bookmark reading pass. There will also be small giveaways, while supplies last. Adults without children are welcome, too.
“Paws and Read benefits more than just its participants,” says Thomas Fitzpatrick, Fairfax County Animal Services’ communications and outreach manager. “Along with toys, playtime, and interaction with staff and volunteers, this added layer of attention helps keep the animals engaged and reduces stress.”
FCAS staff have found that when animals feel more comfortable and stimulated, they can show relax and show their personalities. This can then help them find adoptive homes faster.
According to Fitzpatrick, a cat named Tim Tim became a fan favorite for being such an active listener. Readers would stop by to visit him, and he always greeted his visitors. He was adopted not long after.
Readers should bring a book or two to read, as well as a towel or mat to it on. The program is drop-in from noon to 5 p.m., with no registration required.
Staff ask that visitors keep their voices and behavior calm. Enclosures will remain closed and visitors should refrain from touching the cage bars.
Feature image courtesy Fairfax County Animal Services
