The Denver Animal Shelter is bringing back its annual Bedtime Stories event this December, extending an invite to the community for some holiday warmth and cuddly companionship. Scheduled for Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 18-19, this event aims to support shelter pets by offering them the soothing sounds of bedtime stories, read by volunteers clad in pajamas. An article published on the Denver government website details the activity which not only fosters a unique connection between humans and animals but also helps raise funds for the shelter’s most vulnerable residents.
With just a $20 donation to participate, families can book a time slot to read to dogs and cats waiting for adoption. This event has a dual benefit, acting as a fundraiser and providing a comforting experience to the animals. For the first 15 minutes, participants create holiday cards, which are then displayed on the animal kennels. As Denver embraces the holiday spirit, the event is “an annual event that unites humans with canines and felines with the written word,” according to the City and County of Denver.
These reading sessions are split into two-time slots each day, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 5:30-6:30 p.m., accommodating different schedules so that more people can get involved. To sweeten the deal, the shelter provides cookies, hot chocolate, and supplies for card-making to enrich the experience. Given that space is limited, those interested in sharing a story with a furry listener are encouraged to sign up online quickly.
Significant about this event is the bond it cultivates between animals and children, proving the power of a simple story can cross species. The act of reading to these pets, as the Denver government article suggests, brings a little bit of home to pets as they wait for their forever homes. If you miss out on December's Bedtime Stories, fret not, as the shelter hosts a second event around Valentine's Day in February, for all those looking to spread some love in the chill of winter.
