Humane Education at Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS)

Humane education is how we build a more compassionate, responsible community for people and pets. At ACPS, our Humane Education program focuses on teaching children and families how to care for animals, understand their needs, and grow up with empathy and respect.

Through hands-on learning, age-appropriate programs, and community partnerships, we help the next generation become responsible pet owners and animal advocates.

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PAWS Program

PAWS (Positive Animal Welfare Skills) is our hands-on youth education program designed to teach kids the basics of animal care and kindness.

Through PAWS, participants learn:

• How to safely interact with dogs and cats

• What animals need to be healthy and happy

• The importance of adoption and lifelong commitment

• How small actions can make a big difference for animals

PAWS connects kids directly to animal welfare in a meaningful, positive way.

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Kids Reading Program

Our Kids Reading Program pairs children with shelter animals for reading time.

This program:

• Helps kids build reading confidence

• Provides calm, positive interaction for shelter animals

• Encourages compassion and patience

• Creates a positive experience for both children and pets

It’s a simple but powerful way to support literacy while enriching the lives of animals in our care.

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Summer Camp (Coming Soon)

ACPS is developing a Humane Education Summer Camp for children interested in learning more about animals and animal welfare.

Planned activities include:

• Animal care basics

• Shelter operations education

• Humane treatment and safety lessons

• Interactive, hands-on learning experiences

More details and registration information coming soon.

 

ACPS Coloring Book

Our ACPS coloring book introduces young children to animal care through simple stories and illustrations.

The coloring book:

• Features age-appropriate lessons about caring for dogs and cats

• Encourages empathy and kindness toward animals

• Is available in English and Spanish

• Is used at events, school visits, and outreach programs

It’s a fun, accessible way to start conversations about responsible pet ownership at an early age.

Click to download: Bo_the_Mixed_Breed_Coloring_Book_Print_Ready_v2

Get Involved

Humane education is a core part of our mission to support both people and pets in our community. Whether through PAWS, school visits, reading programs, our coloring book, or future summer camps, ACPS is committed to teaching compassion that lasts a lifetime.

For questions, program details, or partnership opportunities, please contact our Humane Education Coordinator at mpeacock@coj.net.