Humane Education School Program Volunteering
Is the Humane Education School Program for YOU?
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
- Do you enjoy spending time with children and animals?
- Are you comfortable speaking in front of kids?
- Are you available for three hours every second week during the school year (October-June)?
- Can you commit to the School Program for one year?
- Do you have a car or access to a vehicle?
If you answered YES to the above questions, you may enjoy volunteering with the humane education department!
What is the Humane Education School Program?
The School Program (JK-8) has been visiting schools in the Ottawa area since 1990. This program teaches children about responsible pet ownership, dog-bite prevention and the role of the Ottawa Humane Society in the community. Animal welfare topics are presented Monday to Friday from October to June. Volunteers train to become presenters by first acting as animal handlers. A two-member team of humane education volunteers delivers a one-hour, scripted presentation that includes a short video. In addition, a temperament-tested dog is introduced in a supervised session with the children.
What is the typical profile of a humane education volunteer?
Humane education volunteers have diverse backgrounds. We have had students, retirees, homemakers, former and aspiring teachers, and individuals who enjoy working with kids and animals.
I’m interested, but I’m only available at night…
That’s okay! Volunteers may also participate in evening presentations for non-School Program groups such as Brownies, Girl Guides, Cubs and Scouts.
What animals are brought into the schools?
Most of the dogs are staff-owned, and suitable shelter cats are used on occasion. All of our companion animals have passed temperament tests.
May I use my pet in this program?
If you think your dog (no cats, please!) is suitable for a presentation, talk to the Humane Education Coordinator or the Manager of Volunteers. Your companion animal must pass the OHS temperament assessment before he/she is allowed out on presentations.
Contact the Manager of Volunteers, 613-725-3166 ext. 231 or volunteer@ottawahumane.ca.
