Summer Camp Happy Tails
Camp Happy Tails
Camp Happy Tails introduces kids to the wonders and wows of the animal kingdom while learning compassion and respect for the world around them.
Our hands-on educational program allows kids to explore behind the scenes at the Potter League and unleashes a love for making a difference in animals’ lives.
By giving kids a rewarding experience working with animals and learning about animal welfare, we provide them with lessons to help them make responsible decisions regarding animals and people in their lives.
Camp 2025 Sessions
Grades 2-4
The Shelter Life for Me – July 7-11
What’s it like to care for animals all day long? Let’s explore the world of the Potter League and find out how it’s different from a zoo, a sanctuary, or a pet store. Together, we’ll learn how shelter animals are cared for, brainstorm fun ideas for our own pet care havens, and discover what makes animal shelters so important. Get ready for hands-on fun and lots of animal-loving adventure!
Careers with Critters – July 21-25
What’s it like to work with animals every day? Each day, we’ll explore an exciting job where you can help or care for animals. We’ll meet our shelter veterinarian, vet tech, and training team, and even hear stories from people who work at the Potter League. Who knows, maybe we’ll have some surprise guests too! Come join us to discover the many ways people help animals.
Animal Adventures – August 4-8
Let’s go on an animal adventure! We’ll explore what pets need to stay happy and healthy, from tasty foods and training tricks to making fun toys and yummy treats for shelter animals. You’ll even learn about games to play with pets and discover new ways to care for and connect with furry friends. It’s going to be a week of creativity, learning, and animal-loving fun!
Grades 5-7
The Shelter Life for Me– July 14-18
Ever wondered what it takes to run an animal shelter? From early mornings to late nights, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how we care for animals every day at the Potter League. We’ll dive into what makes shelters unique compared to zoos, sanctuaries, or pet stores, and brainstorm innovative ideas for creating our own ideal animal care facilities. This week is packed with learning, problem-solving, and fun for animal enthusiasts like you!
Careers with Critters – July 28 – August 1
Do you dream of working with animals someday? This week, we’ll explore the many exciting careers that make a difference for animals. You’ll get to meet professionals at the Potter League like our shelter veterinarian, vet tech, and training team, and interview them to learn about their work. We might even have guest speakers share their experiences! It’s a perfect opportunity to get inspired and learn about the wide world of animal care careers.
Animal Adventures – August 11-15Â
Get ready for Animal Adventures! This week, you’ll learn all about caring for animals, including the best foods to feed them, how to train and play with pets, and how to create toys and treats that keep them entertained. With hands-on activities and deeper insights into animal behavior, you’ll also discover how to build stronger bonds with animals and support their well-being. Let’s make it an adventure to remember!
Additional Information about Camp Happy Tails
Fees include all materials, activities, and lessons. Campers will have a blast each week with animal interactions, games, crafts, & guest speakers! Lunch is not provided. Campers must bring their own non-microwaveable and nonperishable lunch and water bottle.
Please Note: Some of the animals in our care are provided daily enrichment that includes peanut butter. We cannot ensure that campers will not come in contact with surfaces that have trace amounts. For this reason, we do not recommend that children with severe peanut allergies attend camp.
Scholarship applications are coming soon. The deadline for scholarship submissions is March 31, 2025. If you have any questions, please email Jeanne Jautaikis at jjautaikis@potterleague.org.
Cost:
9am – 3pm at the Potter League’s Animal Care & Adoption Center – $300 per week
(Extended day available from 3pm – 5pm for $50 per day. Please indicate number of extended days required for the camp week when registering.)