by Alex Gustanski
Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 3:46 PM
This past Saturday, the Humane Society of Genesee County provided a unique opportunity for children to engage with a variety of animals including cats, dogs, and rabbits.
FLINT, Mich. — The Humane Society of Genesee County hosted an engaging event that allowed children to connect with adoptable pets through their Furry Tales program. This initiative encourages young readers to visit the shelter and share stories with the animals.
A total of 16 keen participants took part in this heartwarming event. Following a brief behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, they began reading aloud to the shelter’s furry residents.
Heidi Molyneux, who oversees child programs and serves as a cruelty investigator at the Humane Society, emphasized the significance of this initiative for both children and animals alike. “This experience is especially beneficial for our more timid animals that lack socialization,” Molyneux explained. “When kids read to them, it helps these pets come out of their shells. Additionally, it enhances children’s reading skills since animals are nonjudgmental; they don’t mind if a word is mispronounced or if the story isn’t read perfectly.”
Molyneux also noted that it’s not uncommon for families to leave with a new pet after spending time reading together.
The final orientation session for Furry Tales will take place on Saturday, November 29th at 1 p.m., providing one last chance for kids to participate in this rewarding program.