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Sit. Stay. Read! - Join Us for Tales for Tails Presented by Rutter's Childrens Charities

What is Tales for Tails at the York County SPCA? 

Tales for Tails is a unique program where young readers (ages 17 and under) can visit our shelter and read aloud to our shelter pets, including dogs, cats, and small animals, at no cost. Whether you're practicing reading skills or just want to share a good story, our animals love the attention!

What are the Benefits of Tales for Tails?

This program helps young kids and teens build confidence in their reading while providing comfort and enrichment to our shelter pets. It allows the animals to experience the presence of a child, an opportunity they may not have had before. It's a win-win!

How Often are the Tales for Tails Events Held? 

Our Tales for Tails program is held on the fourth Sunday of every month from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted.

Once you arrive, you will have a towel or blanket to sit on and a selection of books if you do not bring your own. Our Tales for Tails Team will ask parents/guardians to sign a liability waiver if their child has not participated in the program in the past and will review all safety guidelines. Participants will then be directed toward the animals participating in the program that day.

2025 Tales for Tails Dates

Tales for Tails is held on the fourth Sunday of each month (unless otherwise noted) from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

  • February 23rd
  • March 23rd
  • April 27th
  • May 25th
  • June 22nd
  • July 27th
  • August 24th
  • September 28th
  • October 26th
  • November 23rd
  • December 28th
What if We Fall in Love with One of the Animals We Read to? 

This is the BEST possible scenario! At the York County SPCA, we are all about making the right love connection between an adopter and a pet. If you fall in love with an animal, you can apply to adopt them by filling out an adoption questionnaire. If you are not in a position to adopt at the moment, you can always apply to foster an animal. You can also apply to become a volunteer with us and have the opportunity to visit our shelter pets even more!

How do I Sign Up for the Tales for Tails Program? 

Our Tales for Tails events will be announced on our Facebook page and via our email list, two dates at a time. To allow other children to participate in the program, we ask that participants only sign up for one of the two dates provided. These events fill up quickly and are first-come, first-served. Sign up for our email list below! 

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