This Camp Has Gone to the Dogs... and Cats

The in conjunction with the is hosting its first-ever to educate area youths about domestic and wild animals.

Katy Prete, Administrative Assistant for the shelter had her hands full earlier this week as she entertained a group of campers who were mid-way through the first camp session. Sharing details about the camp’s many activities, Prete explained, “The camp is about having respect for the animals and about how to care for them.”

Tuesday was “Cat Day” and about 15 to 20 campers were busy making “cat” crafts and visiting with a shelter kitten who was on her way to an adopted home. Later in the day the campers were scheduled to learn about cat body language.

The camp is held at Young’s Pond Park and activities include nature hikes and special visits from experts on local plant life and wildlife (raid days the camp is held in the Park & Recreation Department). The finale of the camp is Friday when campers learn about the shelter and what it takes to become a volunteer. Shelter Director Laura Selvaggio Burban’s daughter was at the camp on Tuesday and shared that she will be educating campers about volunteering on Friday.

The camp is $100 per week, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp is open to students grades 3 to 7. Students should bring bagged lunch and can be dropped off and picked up from Young’s Park. For more information call the Park & Recreation Department at 203-488-8304.