A Tale for a Tail

At this time HSN is not offering the Tale for a Tail program. Please check back for a return date.

A Tale for a Tail is our one-hour reading program in which children visit the shelter to read to the animals. This program is designed to provide enrichment for both humans and shelter pets.

Boy Reading Book with Kitten in Lap

How to participate:
Children of all ages can participate in A Tale for a Tail on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 4:30 pm at our main shelter. Participants may read to either dogs, cats or small animals and HSN will supply the books.

Participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Note: We require one parent/guardian per three children while at the shelter.

When you arrive at the shelter, please sign in at the front desk, choose a book and start making a shelter pet’s day!

You do not need to register for A Tale for a Tail unless you would like to bring a group of children. Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteers@hsnaples.org for more information on groups.

How it helps:
This kind of interaction is the highlight of the shelter pet’s day. Interactions like these lower their stress levels, which helps them feel more comfortable in the shelter. It increases their confidence levels and helps them be more confident around people. This makes them more easily adoptable and will eventually help them in their new homes!

The program also benefits the humans involved. It allows them to practice their reading and gain confidence in their ability to read aloud while in a safe and fun environment. The readers also will benefit from the incredible feeling of helping and spending time with a shelter pet in need.