PAWS PALS

Read To

Shelter Dogs!

The Wayne County Dog Shelter and PAWS have launched an innovative and heartwarming reading program designed to benefit both children and shelter dogs. This initiative encourages young readers to practice their reading skills by reading aloud to the shelter dogs. This program helps children build their confidence and improve their literacy skills while providing the dogs with much-needed socialization and companionship. By participating in this program, children and dogs experience the joy of connection, creating a nurturing environment for all involved. It's a wonderful opportunity for families to support their community and promote the welfare of these lovable animals.

How it works

  • Register Below

    Register for an in-person orientation.  Attend one orientation class and then start reading! 

  • Attend Orientation

    We will be holding orientation on September 20th and September 27th.  Registration closes 3 days before orientation.  At orientation you will learn all about the Shelter, the dogs, and the PAWS PALS program! There is a $10 fee due at the time of orientation. All PAWS PALS  will receive a t-shirt at a later date. 


    UPCOMING DATES:

    September 20, 2025

    September 27, 2025

  • Read to a Shelter Dog!

    Once you have completed orientation you are ready to go!  Grab a sit mat, headphones, a book, and start reading to your furry friends! 

PAWS PALS REGISTRATION

Questions? No Pawblem!

FAQ's

Can't find your questions here?

Email PAWS Pals Coordinator, Michelle Neely, for more information.

  • What are the orientation hours?

    Orientation begins promptly at 9:30am and will end by 11:00am.

  • What should I bring?

    • Your child may bring a book of their own, or we have a library they can choose a book from.
    • All children need to wear closed toed shoes for safety reasons. 
    • There is a one time $10 cash program fee per child. 

  • When will my child be able to read to the dogs?

    Your child must attend one orientation with a parent or guardian.  Once orientation is complete then your child may read to the dogs during regular shelter hours which are Tuesday-Friday from 12pm-5pm and Saturday from 9am-2pm.

  • Will my child be able to meet a dog?

    All of the dogs that are being read to will be in their kennels. The children will not be interacting with the dogs outside of the kennels.