Reading Buddies
What Is the Reading Buddies program?
Reading Buddies is a Furry Friends program where children read one-on-one with a variety of pets in local schools and libraries. This program has been successful in increasing children’s confidence in their reading, their comprehension, and their love of books.
Is the Reading Buddies program limited to dogs?
No! Our goal is to have multi-species teams unless specifically requested otherwise by the site. Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and any other animal that can quietly sit or lie down while a child is reading to them are welcome. Some Reading Buddies teams may be dogs-only if the library or school requests that. Dogs who are reactive toward cats or other small animals may still be allowed to participate in the Reading Buddies program on one of these dogs-only teams.
What makes a pet suitable for Reading Buddies?
First, of course, the pet must have had a favorable evaluation in the Pet Etiquette class, and both the pet and the human participants must be up to date on dues and necessary vaccinations. Second, pets must be able to be calm in the presence of others of their own species and with pets of other species.
How do I join a Reading Buddies team?
Prior to joining one of the Reading Buddies teams, you and your pet must be current Furry Friends members and have participated in visits for at least six months. A 1.5 hour Reading Buddies evaluation class is required. In this evaluation class, children will actually sit with your pet and read to them while the behaviorist evaluates the pet’s reactions. Reactions to a calm cat in the area will also be tested.
Sign Up For a Reading Buddies Class
Below is the sign-up for the Reading Buddies classes offered to Furry Friends volunteers that have participated in at least 6 months of regular visits. There is a $50 per person fee for this class. Pay the fee online or send a check to Furry Friends. The address of the class will be sent upon paid registration for the class. Deadline for paid registration is one week prior to the class date; class size will be limited to 15 pets. Class confirmations are mailed no sooner than two weeks prior to the class. If the class you select is full, we will schedule you for the next available class.
2025 Reading Buddies Class dates:
March 9 1:30 PM
September 28 1:30 PM
