Burlington Review

The Burlington County Animal Shelter is inviting children to participate in a unique reading event this Sunday, March 2. As part of Read Across America Week, children are encouraged to bring their favorite books to the shelter located at 35 Academy Drive in Westampton. From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, they will have the opportunity to read aloud to dogs and cats housed at the shelter.

Burlington County Commissioner Tyler J. Burrell highlighted the benefits of this initiative for both children and animals. "Reading is key to developing a lifelong love of learning and inviting children to practice reading to the dogs and cats at the shelter is another way to make it fun and exciting for them," said Commissioner Burrell. He further noted that "studies show that reading aloud to animals can boost children’s confidence and their reading proficiency, and the interactions can also help some of the shy dogs and cats become more acclimated to people and children."

During the event, animals will remain behind glass enclosures while families are encouraged to take photos with their favorite pets for social media sharing.

The idea for Sunday's event was inspired by a previous visit from Mount Laurel's Hartford School students, known as Hartford Hounds 4 Hounds. In December, these fifth graders read to shelter animals and collected over $600 in donations along with pet supplies.

"The Mount Laurel school’s visit was a big success, and the shelter is hoping for more of the same on Sunday," said Burrell. "It’s a great idea that can help encourage more children to read and also find forever homes for some great dogs and cats."

For those unable to attend Sunday's event, information about adoptable pets is available on the shelter's website. Additionally, regular Read to the Dog sessions are hosted by the Burlington County Library System at various branches featuring trained therapy dogs.