Animal Aides: Words & Whiskers - Fall Club (ages 8 - 11)
About this Event
Weekly Meeting: Friday, 5pm - 7pm
Words & Whiskers introduces children ages 8–11 to Calgary Humane Society's mission while nurturing a love of reading and building confidence in literacy and communication. Through reading aloud to shelter animals, children learn how to interact calmly and compassionately with pets while providing valuable enrichment and positive socialization for animals awaiting their forever homes.
Throughout the club, participants will practice their reading skills, develop a deeper understanding of animal behavior and welfare, and discover the important role they can play in supporting animals in need. Engaging literacy activities, animal-themed discussions, and hands-on shelter experiences help foster empathy, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to animal welfare.
This is the perfect opportunity for young readers and animal lovers to grow their confidence, connect with shelter animals, and make a meaningful difference in a supportive and rewarding environment.
Our Words & Whiskers club attendees will...
- Learn to identify animal body language signs in dogs, cats, bunnies, and more
- Build confidence and enthusiasm in reading by practicing aloud in a calm, supportive environment
- Strengthen literacy and communication skills through structured reading activities and guided discussions
- Learn how to interact with animals calmly, compassionately, and safely while providing enrichment through reading
- Gain an understanding of Calgary Humane Society’s mission and how animal welfare organizations support animals in need
- Develop empathy by recognizing how their presence and voices positively impact the animals they read to
- Improve focus, patience, and self‑expression through regular participation in our weekly reading sessions
- Connect stories and reading experiences to real‑life animal care and advocacy
- Grow into thoughtful, future animal welfare advocates by engaging with animals, staff, and meaningful shelter activities
Club Dates:
- Week 1: Friday, September 25th
- Week 2: Friday, October 2nd
- Week 3: Friday, October 9th
- Week 4: Friday, October 16th
- Week 5: Friday, October 23rd
- Week 6: Friday, October 30th
- Week 7: Friday, November 6th
- Week 8: Friday, November 13th
This is an active, hands‑on learning experience. Each week, youth will take part in age‑appropriate tasks that support the shelter, including group activities, small projects, and meaningful contributions to the care and enrichment of our animals and their spaces.
Before enrolling, we encourage families to talk with their children to ensure they are interested in participating in the program.
We want every participant to feel welcome, engaged, and empowered. Together, we’ll build new skills, help animals in need, and make a positive impact; let’s learn and grow together!
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
CAD 187.71



















