What can kids expect at BC SPCA youth programs?
Our goal is to offer a fun, inclusive, animal-themed experience to all participants. Through their time with us, participants will have the opportunity to connect with the BC SPCA and other animal-loving kids. BC SPCA camps and workshops include a variety of animal-themed indoor and outdoor activities (depending on the season), games and crafts. Participants also get to go on a shelter tour to see how the BC SPCA runs and observe some of the animals in our care. In addition, we often welcome guest speakers from the community to share and engage with us about their animal expertise. We want kids and teens to leave their time with us feeling more knowledgeable about animal issues and more empowered to make a difference.
Do you offer any financial assistance?
Yes! We have a bursary program is available for all BC SPCA youth programs. Parents/guardians who wish to apply may fill out the online application form prior to program registration. Kindly note, we have a limited number of bursaries available, and cannot guarantee that all applicants will be successful.
We will review bursary applications as quickly as possible as we receive them. Applicants will be contacted within two weeks of submitting an application with a response from our team. If the application is approved, the participant’s parent/guardian will receive a code to be applied when completing their event registration online. Bursary applicants do not need to register through the online registration system prior to receiving a response to their application.
How much time do participants get to spend with animals?
While our programs focus on learning about animals and the environment in fun ways, they are not designed for registrants to spend all day with animals. We do our best to provide some hands-on experience with animals during the day, while also considering the welfare of the animals and the working environment of the shelter. With this in mind, participants should not expect more than 40 minutes per day of direct animal time. For safety reasons, kids will not interact with shelter dogs. Some interactions with temperament-tested dogs belonging to guest speakers or BC SPCA staff members may be possible.
Can I register my child for a program if they’re outside of the indicated age range?
BC SPCA youth program activities are designed for specific age groups. Children must be within the program’s specified age range as of Dec. 31, 2024 (e.g., for an 8-11 program, a child must be between the ages of 8-11 as of Dec. 31, 2024). We understand there can be challenges with this system. If your child’s birthday falls toward the beginning or end of the year, please contact our camp team, and we will do our best to accommodate.
Age exceptions: Our programs are designed for kids within the stated age ranges. If your child is outside of this age range, but would be interested in participating, please email camp@spca.bc.ca with your child’s name, birth date and your contact information, and we may consider age exception requests in the weeks leading up to a given program.
What methods of payment are accepted?
We accept payment online by Visa or Mastercard. Unfortunately our system does not accept debit-credit cards. If you would like to make arrangements to pay by cheque, please contact camp@spca.bc.ca. Your registration will NOT be reserved until these arrangements have been made.
What is your refund policy?
Spring break and summer camps: Cancellations received two full weeks before the start of the camp in which the child is registered will receive a full refund. Cancellations with less than two weeks’ notice will receive a 50 per cent refund. No refunds will be given after the start of camp.
Workshops and workshop series: We require seven days’ notice of cancellation for a single-day workshop and workshop series. Cancellations with less than seven days’ notice will receive a 50 per cent refund. No refunds will be given after the start of an event.
How can I communicate with staff about my child’s learning or behavioural needs?
We encourage parents/guardians to share any information that they wish about the registered participant. The program registration form includes space to outline any learning, behavioural, other needs or information that will help ensure a positive experience.
Can I register my child for more than one summer camp?
Children are limited to registering for one of each program type (e.g., one All About Animals camp), but they are welcome to register for multiple programs (e.g., one All About Animals camp, plus an additional one-day workshop.