Animal Tales is a special program for children ages 4–17 to read to adoptable animals at HARP’s East Side shelter. This rewarding experience not only helps our shelter animals become more comfortable and socialized—improving their chances for adoption—but also helps children build confidence and improve their literacy skills.

The program begins with an orientation, which children attend along with their grown-up. During orientation, you’ll learn all about our shelter, the domestic animals we care for, and the basics of observing animal behavior.

After completing the orientation, participants can sign up for as many or as few reading sessions as they’d like! Kids can bring their favorite books from home or select from our collection. They’ll read to animals whose kennels are marked with a “Read to me next!” sign, creating a positive and enriching experience for both the children and the animals.

Allergens:
While we strive to make our programs safe and welcoming for everyone, please be aware that potential allergens may be present in our facility, including pollen, animal dander, and nuts.

Accessibility & Inclusivity:
We’re committed to creating an inclusive and accommodating environment for all participants. To support this, we offer one Monday reading session each month, designed to provide a more sensory-friendly experience. This program welcomes readers of all abilities. If your child requires special accommodations, please let us know—we’re happy to work with you to ensure a positive experience.