Animal Humane Society

Throughout the year, Animal Humane Society offers an abundance of camps and educational opportunities for animal-loving kids! Check out some of the program descriptions here and visit the website for more information and registration. 

Programs for kids and families | Animal Humane Society

School Year Camps

Animal Humane Society's day camps offer a one-of-a kind experience for kids who love animals!

Students spend time immersed in everything animal at one of our three shelter locations. Each camp features animal-related educational activities, including games, crafts, animal interactions, and more! We create a unique experience for all campers so they can return to our programs year after year.

Day camps are held from 9 AM to 4 PM.

Register and find upcoming dates here: Day camps for youth | Animal Humane Society 

Shelter Vet Camp

Is your child interested in becoming a veterinarian one day? If so, you're in the right place! Our Shelter Vet Camp is designed to immerse students in the world of shelter medicine. Upon completion of the program, each child will receive a certificate to commemorate their experience. 

Shelter Vet Camp is hosted at our Golden Valley, Coon Rapids, and Woodbury locations

Grades 3-4 will practice surgery skills on a pretend patient, design a blood model, learn to identify common shelter animal ailments, and more.

Grades 5-6 will have the opportunity to practice skills used by shelter veterinary staff, such as administering vaccinations, performing blood draws, and listening to animals' heart beat and lungs.

Grades 7-8 will take a deeper dive into common shelter illnesses and work with veterinary staff to develop a treatment plan unique to each animal. We will also learn about parasites, the danger of germs, and much more.

Register and find upcoming dates here: Shelter Vet Camp | Animal Humane Society

Paint My Pet 

Paint a portrait of your pet! Participants will paint a portrait of their dog, cat, rabbit — or any animal — under the guidance of an experienced artist. No previous painting experience is needed. Various sessions for ages 7 to adult are offered! The canvas, easel, and all other painting supplies will be provided. Just dress for mess and get ready to be creative! At the end of the program, participants will bring their painting home with them.

Register and find upcoming dates here:  Paint My Pet | Animal Humane Society

Multi-Day Camps and Programs

Exploring Animal Careers

Did you know there are more than 100 different jobs at Animal Humane Society? It's true! Exploring Animal Careers is a three-day program for teens entering 6-10 grade.

Find upcoming dates and more information here: Exploring Animal Careers

Project Purpose

Project Purpose is a unique, four-month program for 7-10 graders to learn more about AHS while empowering them to help make the world a better place for animals.

Find upcoming dates and more information here: Project Purpose

Rescue Readers

Rescue Readers provide soothing company to dogs, cats, and critters awaiting adoption in our shelters. Opportunities are available in Coon Rapids, Golden Valley, and Woodbury. 

Find upcoming dates and more information here: Rescue Readers

Summer Camp

Summer Camp, hosted in Coon Rapids, Golden Valley, and Woodbury, is a weeklong camp designed for kids entering grades 3-8.

Find upcoming dates and more information here: Summer Camp

Other Great Resources

Connect with an Educator

Meet virtually with an AHS educator and learn more about how AHS provides care and services to animals and people across Minnesota. This virtual option is open to all ages and great for classrooms and community groups.

Free virtual activities

These free, online-only games and activities provide children of all ages with unique ways to learn about animals from the comfort of home.