Question 1

How do I register my child for Camp?

Accepted Answer

You must register online at the above link. Payment is due at the time of registration. Registration closes once all sessions are full or approximately one week prior to the first day of camp.

Question 2

What is the Cancellation Policy?

Accepted Answer

A $50 administration fee will be assessed per camper for all cancellations (If the SPCA must cancel a session, you will receive a refund of all tuition paid).

Refunds are not given for dismissal, failure to attend, absence, or sick days.

If you cancel before the start of your camp session, the amount of the tuition refund is determined by the following schedule:
● Before June 1st: all but $50 refunded
● After June 1st: no refund available

We’re happy to switch your camper to an alternate session, free of charge, if a space is available.

Question 3

What happens if I want to change to a different session?

Accepted Answer

Request for a date change must be made at least three weeks prior to the camp start date and must be received in writing via email or fax. Date change requests can only be approved if space is available.

Question 4

Do we offer childcare before or after camp?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not have before or after camp care available.

Question 5

Can I drop my child early or pick up late?

Accepted Answer

We allow drop off 15 minutes prior to camp start (9am) and 15 minutes after camp end time (4pm).

Question 6

What’s a typical day at camp?

Accepted Answer

Camp activities include presentations from local experts in the animal care field, activities about caring for animals, indoor/outdoor games, and interaction with shelter animals, crafts and trail walks. Older children 10+ may have the opportunity to observe medical or surgical procedures in our medical suite.

Question 7

Who will work with my child while at Compassion Camp?

Accepted Answer

Staff and volunteers who have a background in education as well as experience with animals. Employees and volunteers who work directly with campers receive a comprehensive background check. Your child may also interact with other shelter employees and volunteers as well as guest presenters during Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, etc.

Question 8

Will my child get to interact with animals at the shelter?

Accepted Answer

We make every effort to arrange for campers to interact with animals throughout their camp week. The goal of camp is to provide an engaging, fun and safe educational experience that includes hands-on experiences with animals.

Question 9

What if my child has allergies?

Accepted Answer

Camp is not recommended for children with allergies to pets or pet dander. Camp is held inside our Humane Education Center, but we do frequent the shelter that can house over 100 animals at a time. Please be aware if your child has a nut allergy; dogs are given peanut butter daily and many treats contain nut allergens.

Question 10

If my child attends camp and interacts with animals, should I worry about my pets at home?

Accepted Answer

We have rigorous safety and cleaning protocols in place in order to provide a safe and clean environment for all. While it is not likely that your child will purposefully encounter sick animals, we do recommend that children wash hands and change clothing before interacting with pets at home.

Question 11

Do we offer camp scholarships?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we do not offer camp scholarships.

Compassion Camp for Kids 2026

Frequently asked questions