Humane Society
Camps
Education is a crucial component of the Idaho Humane Society’s mission to advocate for the welfare and responsible care of animals, protect them from neglect and cruelty, and promote humane awareness and compassion. We strive to share the shelter’s mission and programs, teach younger generations about humane care for pets, and safety around animals.
Contact us at [email protected] if you have further questions.
Our Humane Education camps take place at our Bird Campus located at 1300 S Bird Street, Boise, Idaho 83709.
Summer Camps
Camps are a terrific way for children to gain experience with animals and get involved in shelter projects. Camp curriculum changes each session so repeat campers are welcome! Each session will explore animal care and behavior, IHS goals and mission, humane awareness, compassion, and service. We strive to share the shelter’s purpose and programs as well as teach younger generations about humane care for pets and safety around animals.
Camp Basics
- Location: Idaho Humane Society Summer Camps are held in the Humane Education wing of our Bird St Adoption Center. Address is 1300 S Bird St, Boise ID 83709.
- Ages: For campers ages 5-15. Camp curriculum is designed to be developmentally appropriate for a specific age-range, and we are unable to accommodate requests to enroll campers who do not meet the age specifications.
- Camp fees:
- $185 for week-long camps
- $50 for a one-day camp
- $90 for the week-long camp with half-days
- Times: Camp Programming begins at 8:30 a.m. and doors will open at 8:20 a.m. for drop off. Camp will end at 3:30 p.m.
- Attire: Be sure your camper is dressed appropriately for a day in the shelter and animal interaction. Closed-toed shoes and shorts or pants (skirts and dresses are unsuitable) are required, every day.
- Disabled Campers: If your camper has a physical or developmental disability that could impact their ability to safely handle animals, follow instructions, or regulate their emotions, please reach out to our Humane Education Coordinator to discuss if and how we can best accommodate their needs.
Camp Information
- Because of our interactions with animals and the environment of the shelter, we are unable to accommodate animal and/or peanut allergies.
- Socialization with animals will be based on the availability of appropriate shelter pets.
- Lunch and snacks will not be provided. Please pack hearty lunches and snacks to fuel our fun!
- Cell phones are not allowed at camp. Please be sure your camper leaves cell phones and other electronics at home. Our Education Coordinator or Volunteer Services Manager will always have our Camp phone for you to contact us or your child and for your child to call you if requested. We will include the number in the Camp Info Email the week before camp!
Scholarships
- The Idaho Humane Society strives to provide fun, educational programming at affordable prices.
- We provide need-based scholarships on a limited basis. Contact for more information.
- Click to Apply
4-Day Camp Descriptions and Dates
- June 5-8: World of Pets (ages 5-7) $90 Half Day / 8:30 am-12:30 pm.
In the World of Pets, we will learn about animal safety and responsibility. Children will get hands on experience and learn what it takes to be a responsible and thoughtful pet owner. We will learn all it takes to care for pets with respect, compassion, and warmth.
For those who would like to volunteer at the Idaho Humane Society, Shelter Life is for you. Learn the “behind the scenes” of the shelter and how you can help. This camp emphasizes community service and leadership. We will learn about animal enrichment and practice with shelter animals. As a group, we will identify needs in the shelter and roll up our sleeves to assist!
- June 26-29: Pet Pros (ages 12-15) $185 Full Day / 8:30 am-3:30 pm.
This session is for students interested in professions working with animals or looking to dive deep into animal care. We will focus on animal training, First Aid, and basic medical treatment and then put our new skills into practice. We will learn about the many career opportunities working with animals and hear from Pet Pros in the field.
This camp will teach students how to be responsible stewards of the animals in our community. We will specifically focus on caring for dogs, cats, and small animals. In addition to physical needs, we will explore animal behavior, the cost of caring for a pet and some of the ways to build better relationships with animals—in and outside of our homes.
Do you want to be a pet hero? Learn how to advocate for individual animals by observing their behavior, interpreting its meaning, and improving their lives. We will practice with some of our furry residents and brainstorm ways to help them find their forever homes.
1-Day Camp Descriptions and Dates
One-Day Camp Dates and Description (8:30 am-3:30 pm)
During these one-day camps, groups will focus on enriching the lives of the animals in our homes and community. We will listen to experts and research the ways in which we can support the emotional and physical well-being of pets. Students will learn why animals need enriching activities and understand how to curb stress and boredom in pets. We will learn the art of playing with pets through hands-on DIY activities.
- June 23: Animal Enrichment (ages 5-7) $50
- July 7: Animal Enrichment (ages 8-10) $50
- July 14: Animal Enrichment (ages 11-13) $50
- July 27: Animal Enrichment (ages 13-15) $50
- July 28: Animal Enrichment (ages 5-7) $50
