We are so excited to announce the return of our Animal Reading Friends (ARF) Program just in time for summer break! Kids of all ages can join us at the shelter, located at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai, on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10:30-12:30 and read to our shelter animals. We will kick off this program on Wednesday, July 6^th at 10 am!

Kids will receive a punch pass ARF card upon their first visit and the more times they join us, the more prizes they will be eligible for! Reading to animals is highly beneficial to kids because it is a judgment-free experience! This summer is the perfect time for them to practice their reading and boost their confidence for the upcoming school year!

But let’s not forget about the benefits to the animals! One study indicates that spending just three minutes with a shelter pet increases their Serotonin levels (happy hormones!). So, by spending time reading their favorite book to a cat or dog, the kids are helping adoptable animals to be happier and healthier too!

Animal Reading Friends can sit outside the dog kennels or in the cat and kitten rooms and read to our animals. Please understand that the shelter can be a stressful environment for some animals so expect barking from some of our dogs. It is also important to respect their personal space and not touch the dogs while reading to them. If you plan to join us, please come prepared with sunscreen, your favorite books, and a reusable water bottle!

If you have any questions, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Sarah Fraza at [email protected]!