Pet Camp at Humane Indiana Educates Kids on Animal Care

Summer camps come in various forms, and Humane Indiana offers a unique experience for kids to enjoy time with animals. Children engaged in activities that taught them about pet care and the shelter’s mission.

Zelda Rutherford, age 10 from Hammond, enjoyed playing with a puppy named Freddie during the Pet Camp. The week, known as Pet Care Week, involved around a dozen kids who participated in learning tasks aimed at educating them on pet ownership.

Hayes Rooney, a 10-year-old from Munster, expressed her desire to own a dog in the future. “This is my third time at this camp,” she shared, hoping to prepare for owning a dog. She also learned about the shelter’s operations and staffing during previous visits.

The children interacted with a playful puppy named Alvin, enjoying his energy as they watched him with his favorite toy. Pictured during the camp were participants Zelda, Hayes, Andrew Sickles from Dyer, Betty Musgrove from Hammond, and Ashlynn Dean from Munster.

“The most important lesson I learned is that the shelter relies on donations,” Hayes noted. Her family supports the organization by donating supplies. This aligns with the goals of Lindsey Stirn, the Shelter Services Liaison, who led the Camp.

We hope children learn that they can advocate for animals in their communities.

The camp began with Stirn explaining pet responsibilities beyond basic care. She discussed the shelter’s function, structure, and departmental roles. Campers then interacted with the shelter pets in an enclosed circle, enjoying the playful puppies and their toys.

Eli DeYoung, a 7-year-old from Lansing, Illinois, attended camp again this year, eager to learn more about how to care for pets.

The day’s final activity was a walkthrough of the shelter, providing insight into the daily responsibilities of staff caring for nearly 70 cats and dogs. Stirn noted, “We also have 100 animals in foster care, mostly kittens.”

For information on Humane Indiana, call (219) 922-3811 or visit www.humaneindiana.org.

Sue Ellen Ross reports for the Post-Tribune.