Animal Rescue RI Launches Reading Program Benefiting Students & Animals

Animal Rescue RI Launches Reading Program Benefiting Students & Animals

Animal Rescue Rhode Island is launching a program called "Paws to Read," to help children with their reading skills and to provide socialization and companionship for adoptable animals who call Animal Rescue RI their temporary home. 

“When a child is reading to an animal, there is no stress, no judgment. There is only unconditional attention, and it goes both ways because the animal is happy to have time outside of its cage with meaningful human interaction. It’s a great way to socialize pets in preparation for their forever homes," said Tammy Walter, Executive Director of Animal Rescue Rhode Island as well as a mother. 

How it Works 

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Any Rhode Island school student grades 1 to 4 can make an appointment to come to ARRI's community room and read his or her favorite book or story to a cat or dog from the shelter. 

A volunteer from ARRI is present as a handler to the animal and parents can choose whether or not to stay in the room. The session lasts for approximately 30 minutes and there is not cost involved. 

Make an appointment 

The "Paws to Read" program is geed for after-school and weekends, so appointments can be made Monday through Friday, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 12 to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. 

Appointments are based on the availably of volunteers. 

Click here for more information. 

Animal Rescue Rhode Island 

Animal Rescue Rhode Island was founded in 1938  and is a 7,000 sq. ft facility that provides a safe, healthy and nurturing environment for fostering animals.