We have created an Understanding Animals Educational program that allows Scouts to learn about pet care, shelter care, and animal advocacy. By participating in this educational program, Scouts will be able to earn most or all of the requirements for pet-related Scouting badges. 

These educational group opportunities include a tour of our shelter and (depending on which pets are available) an animal meet and greet, along with the badge-specific materials.

At the Roanoke Valley SPCA, we love working with Scout groups. While we wish we could offer all of our programs at no cost, there are expenses involved that help ensure a safe and engaging experience for everyone. These include staff time, program materials, insurance coverage, and other resources that make each session meaningful and effective. By charging a small fee, we’re able to continue offering high-quality, hands-on programs that meet Scout badge requirements. Your support helps us keep these important initiatives going strong! The fee is $5 per participant, with a $30 minimum.  We also require one adult chaperone per six children in attendance.  Chaperone attendance is free of charge; but do not participate in the making of crafts.  Sessions range from 90-120 minutes long and depending on the desired program, there may be a limit to the number of children within the group.  

Boy Scouts

Critter Care Merit Badge for Cub Scouts (ages 7-11)

Cub Scouts will learn how caring for a pet fosters responsibility and offers a sense of companionship that they can nurture and cherish throughout their lives. This adventure also gives them an opportunity to learn about the many ways animals return the favor and assist people in need.

Girl Scouts

Pets Badge for Brownies (grades 2-3)

If you have a pet or hope to have one someday, this badge will help you learn how to make sure your pet stays happy and healthy. With the Pets Badge, Brownie Girl Scouts will learn how to keep a pet comfy, help a pet stay healthy and safe, make a pet feel loved and feed a pet properly.

Animal Helpers Badge for Cadettes (grades 6-8)

The Animal Helpers Badge will help you learn how animals help humans. Cadette Girl Scouts will explore the connection between human and animal, find out how animals keep people safe, know how animals help people emotionally, check out how animals help people with disabilities, and look at how animals may help people in the future.

All funds collected from Educational programs go directly back into our Educational programs and outreach. Please contact us at (540) 339-9247 for more information.