Youth Programs

The GTHS offers a variety of after school programs for youth in our community who want to learn about the human-animal bond and interact with our shelter animals in person. Our exciting and engaging programs provide a safe place for youth to improve their compassion and empathy through positive social interactions, spending time with like-minded people, and engaging in cuddle time with cats and dogs. All programs are led by our incredible Humane Education team.

Pet Sitters Course

This course is the starter course for youth ages 11 to 16 who love animals and want to turn that love into a business! Students will learn basic dog and cat care and their differences, pet first aid, how to feed, water and exercise pets, and how to successfully start and run their very own pet sitting business. Graduates have the option to be added to the GTHS Endorsed Pet Sitters List that gets distributed to members of the public who call or email the GTHS looking for pet sitters! 

Day of Week: Monday
Dates: April 13 - June 8, 2026
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 11-16
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $250.00+HST

Animal Allies

Through hands-on activities, guided discussions, and meaningful time spent with the animals at GTHS, members will explore the human–animal bond and learn what it means to be a compassionate ally to animals in their community. Participants will build empathy, confidence, and teamwork skills while gaining a deeper understanding of animal welfare, responsible care, and humane values. Animal Allies provides a safe, supportive space where youth can connect with peers, grow as leaders, and turn kindness into action.

Day of Week: Monday
Dates: April 13 - June 8, 2026
Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Age: 11-16
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $150.00+HST

After School Club – Tuesday

This program provides a safe space for kids ages 6 to 10 to learn how to positively interact with peers and animals, to promote the development of empathy and compassion and spark an interest in lifelong learning from a young age. Each week includes a variety of crafts, activities, learning opportunities, and animal interactions! 

Day of Week: Tuesday
Dates: April 14 - June 2, 2026
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 6 -10
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $150.00+HST

Jr. Vets of Tomorrow I

This series introduces kids ages 10 to 14 to the world of veterinary care and responsible pet ownership through engaging instruction and hands-on activities. Each week, we will explore a new topic related to pet care, including anatomy and external wellness checks, grooming techniques, nutritional guidelines, behavioural training, and enrichment exercises – and so much more! This course sets the stage for Jr. Vets of Tomorrow II, where young learners can further explore their passion for animal care.   

Day of Week: Tuesday
Dates: April 14 - June 2, 2026
Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Age: 9-14
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $250.00+HST

After School Club – Wednesday

This program provides a safe space for kids ages 6 to 10 to learn how to positively interact with peers and animals, to promote the development of empathy and compassion and spark an interest in lifelong learning from a young age. Each week includes a variety of crafts, activities, learning opportunities, and animal interactions! 

Day of Week: Wednesday
Dates: April 15 - June 3, 2026
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 6-10
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $150.00+HST

Jr. Vets of Tomorrow II

In the second and final installment of the Jr. Vets series, children ages 9 to 14 will continue to build on the foundational knowledge from the first program, while learn about veterinary diagnostics, emergency care, and most importantly, preventative practices. By the end of the course, participants will have a deeper understanding of animals, preparing them for the next step in their veterinarian journey: Vets of Tomorrow I. 

Please note: Participants must have completed Jr. Vets of Tomorrow I to register for this course. 

Day of Week: Wednesday
Dates: April 15 - June 3, 2026
Time: 6:00-7:00pm
Age: 9-14
Maximum capacity: 12
Cost: $250.00+HST

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR YOUTH PROGRAMS

After School Club

This program provides a safe space for kids ages 6 to 10 to learn how to positively interact with peers and animals, to promote the development of empathy and compassion and spark an interest in lifelong learning from a young age. Each week includes a variety of crafts, activities, learning opportunities, and animal interactions! 

Youth Club

This program offers a safe space for youth ages 12 to 16 to learn about themselves, animals, and explore the world around them together. Throughout 8 sessions, participants will engage in discussions and activities focused on building character traits, while spending their free time with the animals at GTHS to cultivate their compassion and empathy for all. 

Animal Allies

Through hands-on activities, guided discussions, and meaningful time spent with the animals at GTHS, participants ages 11-16 will explore the human–animal bond and learn what it means to be a compassionate ally to animals in their community. Participants will build empathy, confidence, and teamwork skills while gaining a deeper understanding of animal welfare, responsible care, and humane values. Animal Allies provides a safe, supportive space where youth can connect with peers, grow as leaders, and turn kindness into action.

 

Jr. Vets of Tomorrow I & II

This series introduces kids ages 9 to 14 to the world of veterinary care and responsible pet ownership through engaging instruction and hands-on activities. Each week, we will explore a new topic related to pet care, including anatomy and external wellness checks, grooming techniques, nutritional guidelines, behavioural training, and enrichment exercises – and so much more!

In the second course of the Jr. Vets series, children will continue to build on the foundational knowledge from the first program, while learn about veterinary diagnostics, emergency care, and most importantly, preventative practices. By the end of the course, participants will have a deeper understanding of animals, preparing them for the next step in their veterinarian journey: Vets of Tomorrow I. Please note: Jr. Vets of Tomorrow I must be completed before beginning part II. 

Vets of Tomorrow I & II

The first course of the Vets of Tomorrow series introduces participants ages 14 to 17 to the world of veterinary medicine and animal care. Over the 8 weeks, we will discuss different animal care topics, discover ways we can enrich the lives of pets everywhere, and explore possible careers in the animal community. Packed with hands-on activities, time with our GTHS animals, and insightful guest speakers, this course is a great initiation to the world of animal care.  

In the final installment of the Vets of Tomorrow series, this second course delves deeply into veterinary medicine and career opportunities, offering participants firsthand experience in the life of a veterinarian. Participants will explore methods vets use to assess, diagnose, and treat our beloved furry friends, emphasizing the importance of preventative medicine. By the series’ conclusion, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of the daily responsibilities of a vet and the ins and outs of clinic care, empowering them to pursue their career aspirations in veterinary care. Please note: Vets of Tomorrow I must be completed before beginning part II.

Pets Sitters Course

This course is the starter course for youth ages 11 to 16 who love animals and want to turn that love into a business! Students will learn basic dog and cat care and their differences, pet first aid, how to feed, water and exercise pets, and how to successfully start and run their very own pet sitting business. Graduates have the option to be added to the GTHS Endorsed Pet Sitters List that gets distributed to members of the public who call or email the GTHS looking for pet sitters! 

Summer Camp

Join us for a summer of learning, laughter, and unforgettable moments with animals and new friends, designed for children ages 6-9! Build compassion and discover the magic of the human-animal bond through animal interactions and interactive lessons that teach kindness and respect for all living beings. Grow friendships and teamwork with fun games, creative crafts, and group activities that spark connection and cooperation.

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Georgian Triangle Humane Society? Now’s your chance to find out! Join us for a hands-on opportunity to support the care of our furry friends and learn more about the specialized attention they receive each day.

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do – and this is your chance to walk in their shoes. Help out with daily routines like cleaning cat enclosures, refreshing litterboxes, and monitoring the wellbeing of our cats and kittens.

You’ll gain valuable insight into animal care – and yes, fluffy snuggles are included!

Our Leader in Training (LIT) Program is designed for youth ages 14–17 who are passionate about animal welfare and interested in developing leadership skills. Participants will work alongside our summer camp staff to support daily camp activities, help lead games and crafts, and assist in teaching younger campers about the human–animal bond. This hands-on experience allows youth to build confidence and inspire compassion for animals while gaining valuable leadership experience. Student must be available for a full week of camp and attend a training session prior to their first week of camp. 

Questions about any of our programs? Please email education@gths.ca for more information

Meet our Humane Education Specialist

Margaret Mantione comes to the GTHS with a wealth of experience in Humane Education. She creates our educational programming for young people at the GTHS and beyond, online, and in school, library, and community visits. Margaret loves working with a variety of animals and the people of the community she lives in.