Pet-Themed Summer Camps Offered In DuPage County

WESTMONT, IL -- The team at DuPage County Animal Services is offering unique summer camps for kids that appeal to the aspiring veterinarian or the die-hard animal lover. The summer camps will teach kids about animal behavior, veterinary surgery, and care for homeless pets.

The hands-on camps, led by DuPage County Animal Services staff, are geared for different age groups for kids between five and 13 years old. Each session puts kids right into the action interacting with shelter animals, rabbits, and kitties.

Here's a look at some of the camps that are available. Be sure to register early to snag a spot.

Animal Advocates, ages 11 to 13

June 17 through June 19

This camp teaches kids the inner workings of animal shelters and the impact they have on animal welfare. Kids will learn about animal intake and how cats and dogs are marketed to encourage adoption.

Animal Doctors, ages 11 to 13

June 24 through June 26

If you've got a future veterinarian in your house, this is the camp for them. The shelter's veterinary administrators and technicians will guide students through a mock surgery and help them learn how to identify the source of symptoms in animals who are sick or injured.

Fido Fluent, ages 11 to 13

July 8 through July 10

Games and interactive presentations will show campers how to interpret the signals that dogs send through various barks and types of body language. Kids will also get an inside look into different jobs that dogs perform to help people.

Critter Careers, ages 11 to 13

July 15 through July 17

Shelter workers and animals will be on hand to help students learn about the myriad different careers that are available for those who love to work with animals. The camp includes hands-on activities and presentations led by animal welfare professionals from throughout the county.

Furever Friends, ages 7 to 10

July 22 through July 24

Young campers will learn about the responsibilities and joys that are involved with owning a pet. Crafts and games will teach kids how to decide which type of pet would be best for them and what type of expenses are involved in adopting an animal. Interactive play and work with shelter pets will provide hands-on experience.

Petite Paws, ages 5 and 6

August 5 through August 7

This mini-camp is aimed at younger campers who want to learn about animal behavior, how to interact with pets, and how to be kind to animals. The mini-camp includes games and storytelling, along with some brief time gently interacting with and petting shelter animals.

Each camp is limited to 12 campers, so click the link to learn more about programs at DuPage County Animal Shelter and to register your child.