Pet Therapy Visits and Pet Education Program

For pet therapy, a humane educator brings a therapy dog to visit with the elderly and infirm. Going from room to room, the patients get to stroke and pet the dog. Wonderful things happen as the patients caress the soft fur. Often, memories are stirred of pets in their past. Studies have shown that pet therapy has lowered the blood pressure and tensions in people. Sadly, the visit by dog and educator are often the only visitors the patient will receive other than doctors and nurses.

In the Pet Education Program, the humane educator brings three or four animals to meet a group of elderly, infirm, or physically/mentally challenged people. Sitting in a room together, the patients get to learn about the different animals and pet them if they are able to do so.

Community Youth Groups

The Education Department works closely with the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, YMCA, and other youth groups to offer programs designed to meet a variety of requests. We also offer camp programs, workshops, and visits to their meeting sites.

Enrichment Programs

These four to six week workshops offer students a closer and more in-depth look at animals. Utilizing songs, art, and interactive games geared toward the age of the students, children experience a hands-on animal world where concern, respect, and responsibility toward the environment and the animals that inhabit our world is emphasized. Ages range from two to about twelve years of age. Our latest program is the Mom and Me Tot program where two to five year olds and their parent share animal experiences together.

Tours

Groups are welcome to come for a personal tour of the shelter. You will learn our history and that of the many animals that live here. Guests will have the opportunity to interact and feed many of the animals. All ages welcome and reservations are required. Some restrictions apply.

Birthday Parties

Come have your child's birthday party here. You and your guests will get to meet many animals that call EHS home. A private room will be available afterward for eating cake and opening gifts.