Shelter Scouts
We are excited to offer fun, engaging, on-site youth programs at both our Oakland and Dublin locations. The programs are split up by age: Calico Crew (8-11 year olds) and Rover Recruits (12-17 year olds). Each program is intentionally designed to meet the developmental needs of each age group.
Expand the sections below to see a description of each program.
Calico Crew is an exciting new program for 8-11 year olds at East Bay SPCA! The modules of the program will cover various animal related topics in a fun and interactive learning environment. Since this program takes place onsite at our shelter locations, we will be sure to include a safe, hands-on animal interaction each session.
Module 1: “All About East Bay SPCA”
All activities will be centered around learning about the shelter and the animals in our care. Learn all about shelter ins and outs. Animal-loving participants get hands on animal time as well as information about how our shelter operates. A minimum of one animal socialization session per day can be expected. An animal shelter is a very dynamic environment, the planned daily activities are always subject to change based on the needs of our staff and shelter animals.
Module 2: All About Dogs
As the name suggests, this session is about everything DOGS! Activities will touch on topics ranging from dog body language, how to safely meet a new dog, breed identification, enrichment, positive reinforcement training, and more!
Module 3: All About Cats
You didn’t think we’d forget about our furry feline friends, did you? This session is about everything CATS! Activities will touch on topics ranging from cat body language, how to safely meet a new cat, breed identification, enrichment, community cats, and more!
The Rover Recruits program explores different ways youth can help animals in our community. Participants will explore the world of animal welfare through shelter tasks, educational activities, creating enrichment, animal socialization, and more!
Some examples of potential projects include making dog treats, assisting with shelter laundry, creating adoption posters, preparing for upcoming East Bay SPCA programs or events, making cat toys, assisting with shelter clean-up, providing attention for the animals in our care, etc. This program is supervised by our Humane Education staff, so there is no need for parents/guardians to be present.
Open to youth interested in being a part of a variety of tasks related to shelter operations. The program is a great way to learn about what volunteering with us is like. Participants will gain knowledge of animal care, handling and more!