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.
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.
Day of Week: Monday
Dates: Monday February 3rd - Monday, April 8th (No sessions on February 17th for Family Day or March Break)
Time: 5:45-6:45pm
Age: 12-16
Maximum capacity: 15
Cost: $150.00+HST
Craft Club
Craft Club is an engaging 8-week program where participants (ages 7 to 14) will complete different craft projects that will benefit animals at the GTHS. From learning how to knit pet sweaters, embroidering bandanas, and even creating food and water dishes through pottery, there is something for everyone! The final week, participants will host a ‘Craft Show’ for their families to showcase their amazing creations. This program will provide a fun and supportive environment for learning new skills, in turn teaching us more about empathy and compassion for ourselves and the animals around us.
Additional Information:
No prior crafting experience necessary; suitable for beginners and intermediate crafters.
All materials are included in the program cost
Day of Week: Monday
Dates: Monday February 3rd - Monday, April 8th (No sessions on February 17th for Family Day or March Break)
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 10-14
Maximum capacity: 8
Cost: $250.00+HST
After School Club – Tuesday
This program provides a safe space for kids ages 7 to 11 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: Tuesday, February 4th - Tuesday April 1st (8 sessions, no program on March Break)
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 7-11
Maximum capacity: 15
Cost: $150.00+HST
Jr. Vets of Tomorrow II
In the second and final installment of the Jr. Vets series, children ages 10 to 13 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.
Day of Week: Tuesday
Dates: Tuesday, February 4th - Tuesday April 1st (8 sessions, no program on March Break)
Time: 5:45-6:45pm
Age: 10-13
Maximum capacity: 15
Cost: $250.00+HST
After School Club – Wednesday
This program provides a safe space for kids ages 7 to 11 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: Wednesday, February 5th-Wednesday April 2nd (8 sessions, no program on March Break)
Time: 4:30-5:30pm
Age: 7-11
Maximum capacity: 15
Cost: $150.00+HST
Vets of Tomorrow I
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.
Additional Information:
This course is a prerequisite for Vets of Tomorrow II
Day of Week: Wednesday
Dates: Wednesday, February 5th-Wednesday April 2nd (8 sessions, no program on March Break)
Time: 5:45-6:45pm
Age: 14-17
Maximum capacity: 15
Cost: $250.00+HST
Pet Sitters Course
This course is the starter course for youth ages 12 to 17 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!
Dates: STAY TUNED FOR 2025 DATES & INFO
Age: 12-17
Jr. Vets of Tomorrow I
This series introduces kids ages 10 to 13 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.
Dates: STAY TUNED FOR 2025 DATES & INFO
Age: 10-13
Vets of Tomorrow II
Please note: Participants must have completed ‘Vets of Tomorrow I’ to register for this course.
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. Over the 8 weeks, participants ages 14-17 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.
Dates: STAY TUNED FOR 2025 DATES & INFO
Age: 14-17 *Must have completed Vets of Tomorrow I
Questions about any of our programs? Please email education@gths.ca for more information