El Paso Animal Services Launched Kitty Readers Program
A new reading club allows local children to practice literacy skills by reading aloud to shelter cats.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Cats
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El Paso Animal Services has introduced the Kitty Readers book club, providing a space for children ages 8 to 13 to read to cats at the shelter. The program aims to boost participants' reading confidence while offering socialization for the animals.
Why it matters
This initiative supports child literacy development and helps shelter cats feel more comfortable by providing them with companionship. The program fosters a positive environment where both children and animals benefit from interaction.
The program is open to children between the ages of 8 and 13. Orientation sessions are held at 5001 Fred Wilson Ave, located in the 79906 zip code.
The players
El Paso Animal Services
This local municipal agency manages the animal shelter and oversees pet adoption and community welfare programs in El Paso.
The details
Participants must attend an in-person orientation to learn about cat body language and volunteer expectations before they begin reading. Families can bring their children to the shelter to engage with animals in a structured setting designed to improve reading skills.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: Orientation session held at 2 p.m.
October 18, 2026: Orientation session held at 2 p.m.
Culture Shift
The program follows a documented trend in animal shelters across the United States to utilize youth volunteers for animal socialization. This reflects a broader shift toward community-integrated animal welfare that prioritizes emotional support for both residents and shelter pets.
Families in El Paso can now participate in a new educational activity that combines literacy practice with animal care. Parents should prepare for an initial in-person orientation visit to ensure their children understand the safety guidelines before the reading begins.
The takeaway
This program offers a structured way for children to gain confidence in their reading abilities through consistent, low-pressure practice. Interested families should register for the required orientation session to ensure their child is prepared to interact safely with shelter cats.
Further reading
For more information on local programs, visit Cats.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KDBC.
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