Can I Read to You?

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Can I Read to You? is an afterschool reading program coordinated through Citrus County Animal Services and a local Elementary School. The program is specifically for students struggling with reading and need a safe and encouraging environment to build their reading skills and confidence. Every other Thursday, elementary school students come to the animal shelter to read books to the dogs and cats currently under care at the facility. These story times can last up to an hour. This activity benefits the students, the animals, and the parents and guardians that see improvements in their child’s reading. The pets at the shelter are also becoming more adapted and, therefore, more adoptable. It is very calming for pets in a stressful environment to listen to a child, sitting and reading to them. The benefit is priceless.