Humane Education teaches children respect and compassion for all living things. As they learn about the interdependence between man and nature, children gain a greater self-awareness. They begin to understand that we share our planet with other living creatures, and that each plays a vital role in making the earth a better place to live. Our presentations help teachers show their students the importance of kindness and humane treatment of all living creatures.

Programs

School and community group programs are designed to fit into the current subject matter a class is studying. Many lessons align with national benchmarks and standards. Some suggested topics are:

• Responsible pet ownership, decision making, kindness
• Safety with animals, proper handling
• Environmental impact, stewardship, overpopulation, rabies and vaccinations, wild/domestic/companion animals
• Animal behavior and communication
• Animal abuse, fostering empathy and compassion
• Animal related careers, non profit organization exploration
• Euthanasia and pet loss, exotic pets, habitats and homes

Shelter tours are available by request from Monday through Friday, noon to 6pm, and consist of a 45- to 60-minute program with information on the role the Humane Society plays in our community, including adoption and lost and found pet services (with emphasis on responsible pet ownership and humane treatment of animals).

We can accommodate groups of up to 15 people and will tailor tours to your class or group upon request. To arrange a presentation or tour, call our Humane Education Manager at 616.399.2119 ext. 20 or email at education@harborhumane.org.