The Valley Oak SPCA Critter Camp returns this summer with a lot of puppy love, activities, crafts and guest speakers for children ages 5-12.
Critter Camp provides a lot of interactive time with puppies, kittens, cats and dogs, said Xiomari Rosado, program and volunteer coordinator for VOSPCA. But, it is also an educational environment for children to learn about pet care, local wildlife and more.
“There are some things they can learn and take home to share with their family,” Rosado said.
These things will include dog safety, importance of vaccinations and general pet care.
Campers will also have the chance to see other types of exotic pets and wildlife, such as snakes, other reptiles, bugs and birds, and maybe have hands on with some of them too. They will learn about coyotes and raptors. There will also be arts and crafts time with animal-themes along with games and other activities.
The Camp has two age groups 5-7 and 8-12. Maximum Camp size is about 20, but if there are one or two more, they will try to make room, Mari said.
Last year there was only one week for the 5-7 age group, and much more demand. This year, there is a second week available.
Camp hours are Monday-Friday from 9am-Noon.
The dates for the 8-12 age group are July 6-10 and July 13-17.
The dates for the 5-7 age group are July 20-24 and July 27-31.
Registration is $85 per week; or $150 for two weeks. Registration includes daily snacks, a t-shirt and group photo.
Last year Rosado was asked to become program manager for the first Critter Camp, because she likes kids, she said. This year, she is very much looking forward to it again.
“I had so much fun last year,” she said. “It’s just fun, fun, fun!”
Registration forms may be picked up at the VOSPCA or are available online at www.vospca.org under events.
The VOSCPA is located at 29106 Highway 99, Visalia. For more information, call (559) 651-1111.