Almost everyone has had some experience with Harbor Humane Society. Maybe a neighbor adopted a kitten from us or the dog across the street was picked up by animal control and brought here because it was roaming the neighborhood. Or maybe you called us when your own pet was missing.

A visit to Harbor Humane will complete the picture. You’ll see where the animals stay and learn more about the role the humane society plays. The kindness and care provided by our staff gives every animal in our shelter a second chance for a better life.

We stress the need for responsible pet ownership. One look at a homeless puppy illustrates, far better than words, the importance of proper pet care. Seeing the scores of dogs and cats whose owners never came to claim them, you’ll better understand the reasons for licensing dogs, keeping current I.D. tags on dogs and cats, and keeping pets leashed or confined.

We hope that by learning more about the services we provide for the animals and people of our community, you’ll always feel comfortable contacting us regarding animals in need, resulting in fewer animals in danger.

What You’ll See

A humane education guide will lead your group and can answer questions during your tour. Tours begin in our education room with a basic introduction on pet care and the services we provide for the animals. Some of the animals you’ll see are available for adoption while others are being held in hopes that their owners will reclaim them. Most groups will interact with a shelter puppy or kitten. Tours run 45 minutes to an hour.

Plan Ahead

For teachers or youth group leaders considering a field trip to Harbor Humane, a little advanced planning will help expand the value of the visit as a learning experience and enhance the development of humane attitudes.

Individuals will enjoy the trip and comprehend the lessons we hope to teach, if they have some idea of what they will see, know specific things to ask for, and have thought of some questions to ask while here. For additional activity suggestions and/or humane education materials, contact our Humane Education Manager at 616.399.2119 ext. 20. We can accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Preparing for the Trip

• Arrange your tour at least two weeks in advance by contacting our Humane Education Manager at 616.399.2119, ext. 20.
• Smaller groups mean more interaction and more learning; however, we can accommodate up to 15 people.
• Arrange for an adequate number of adults to assist with supervision for groups with small children (a good ratio is one adult to five children).
• Consider having your group wear name tags. This will aid your guide in answering questions and interacting with your group.
• Notify us ahead of time if there are certain points you would like covered.

Guidelines

• Try to keep the group together and stay with your guide.
• Advise group members to keep fingers and hands out of and away from the kennels. Disease control is very important and germs can be carried from one animal to the next by human hands. We also want to ensure that no one gets bitten or scratched.
• Wash your hands before consuming food and/or leaving our shelter.
• Remind children of the importance of listening and following directions.
• Be sure to ask questions — we’re here to help you learn!