ARF | All Ears Reading®

A national model for visiting animal team programs, the Pet Hug Pack ® is ARF's renowned therapy animal program composed of more than 200 teams of qualified pets and their volunteer handlers.

All Ears Reading®

PLEASE NOTE: As a precautionary measure due to the COVID-19 outbreak, All Ears Reading® sessions are currently suspended.
View the full list of affected programs here.

Reading aloud becomes something extraordinary when sharing a book with a dog! All Ears Reading® pairs young readers with a Pet Hug Pack® therapy dog to help children improve skills, instill confidence, and develop a love of reading. Studies by University of California Davis in partnership with ARF and Nestle Purina Petcare Company confirm the numerous benefits of dogs as calming, non-judgmental reading partners.

All Ears Reading® is a free program for children in first through fifth grade and is offered year-round at several Contra Costa County library locations. Pre-registration at the library is required. For information on starting a program at your library or school, contact the Pet Hug Pack Coordinator.

ARF's Ambassadors

Pet Hug Pack®

A national model for visiting animal team programs, the Pet Hug Pack ® is ARF's renowned therapy animal program composed of more than 200 teams of qualified pets and their volunteer handlers.