Humane Education Educators and community leaders recognize the character-building benefits of our humane education programs and have consistently contacted us to present programs at their schools, community centers, or here at the Roanoke Valley SPCA.
Roanoke Valley SPCA’s humane education programs are an important part of our mission. Our programs are designed to give children the knowledge and skills to learn how to properly and humanely care for pets and to develop future advocates for all animals.
For more information about our humane education programs, contact Erin Dams.
Youth Outreach
Children of all ages from local outreach organizations such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Scouts, camps, after-school program, children from pre-school through high school receive a behind-the-scenes tour of the shelter, learn the basics of caring for a pet, positive reinforcement training and get to interact with a pet!
Summer Camp
Animal Care Adventures Camp and Veterinary Science Camp at the Roanoke Valley SPCA are special and unique camps that offer hands-on activities and unprecedented, behind the scenes access to local veterinary clinics, animal organizations, and of course the Virginia Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine. We are so excited to bring camp back this year! Camp registration begins in February 2023.
Reading Program
The Paws to Read Program is a mutually beneficial experience for pets and children, designed to give our pets attention, feel less stress and become more comfortable around people by having kids read to them.
Visiting Pets Program
We partner with senior residence centers, assisted living centers, and nursing homes to visit with appropriately behaved dogs (and sometimes cats).
Kids Birthday Parties
We have games, educational behind-the-scenes tour, decorations, invitations and party favors. We even have a party hostess to do all the setup and clean up!