6-Hour Animal Care Camp in Rancho Santa Fe
Hands-on animal care skills and career discovery for kids
Duration
6 hrs
Includes
Animal care activities, training
Highlights
Explore the daily work of animal care alongside professional staff. Practice animal husbandry skills while learning about careers with mammals, reptiles, and birds.
- Prepare diets and assist with animal feeding
- Practice grooming, exercise, enrichment, and training techniques
- Discover animal body language and communication
- Help clean habitats and learn routine care procedures
- Explore career paths in animal care and zookeeping
Itinerary
- Campers rotate locations and activities every 15-45 min. They meet different animals during certain activities and those are dispersed throughout the day. Campers also have a snack time which includes some free play and a lunch time which includes some free play.
- 8:45-9:00: check in period.
- 9:30-10:00: first activity. The class will discuss the day, camp rules, and icebreakers as well.
- 10:00-10:30: snack period.
- 10:30-11:15: second activity.
- 11:15-11:45: third activity.
- 11:45-12:30: lunch period.
- 12:30-12:45: fourth activity.
- 12:45-1:15: fifth activity.
- 1:15-2:00: sixth activity.
- 2:00-2:30: seventh activity.
- 2:30-3:00: eighth activity and day review.
- 3:00-3:15: check out period, campers stay circled up with their class and play quiet games.
Important details
- Ages 9+ only
- Requires independent restroom use
- Arrive for check-in between 8:45 and 9:00 AM
- Bring a labeled lunch, snack, and water bottle; food and drinks are not provided
- Wear closed-toe shoes; sandals are not allowed
- Avoid clothing with drawstrings on the playground
- Only adults authorized for pickup may collect campers; bring a valid photo ID
- A signed medical authorization is required for staff to administer medication
- Expect a late pickup fee not included in the listed price: $15 per camper, charged every additional 15 minutes
Cancellation Policy
Cancel more than 24 hours before the camp day starts for an 85% refund. No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before the start of the day.
FAQs
Capacity is strictly limited to allow more direct, hands-on interaction with animals, including behind-the-scenes experiences.
The program style is the same each date, but animal focus and activities may vary based on the day.
Veterinarian is one path, but there are many ways to work with or support animals. These options are discussed during career camps.
Meeting details
Helen Woodward Animal Center - Humane Education Campus, 6447 Helen Woodward Way, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
