SUMMER PROGRAMS at the Richmond SPCA
The Richmond SPCA offers unique camp opportunities for children of various ages throughout the summer. If your child loves animals and is looking for a fun and exciting way to spend his or her summer vacation, then one of these cool camps is likely to be the perfect fit. For additional details, including cost, and to register, click the link beneath the appropriate session or call 804-521-1327.

Refund policy:  Every effort will be made to accommodate enrollment changes based on session capacities.  Cancellations made prior to two weeks before camp are entitled to a refund of half of the enrollment fee; refunds will not be available for cancellations made within two weeks of the start date of any given session. 

Canine Capers and Feline Fun

Why do dogs wag their tails? Do cats really have nine lives? Your child will learn the answers to these questions and many others during this camp. For kids who love cats and dogs, this week-long camp full of games, crafts and activities centered around our canine companions and feline friends will surely peak their interest. Available for rising 1st graders through 4th grade for a full day (9 a.m. to 4p.m.) Monday through Friday

Crafty Critters

Children enrolled in this week-long camp session must love animals and crafts! We will be gluing, drawing and painting our way to creating masterpieces that are inspired by our animal friends. Available for rising 1st graders through 4th grade for a full day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Monday through Friday

Dogs with Jobs

Does your child know that a busy dog is a happy dog and that dogs can be trained to perform all types of cool jobs? We know dogs who run agility, perform tricks, compete in team sports and work for the police department. We know therapy and service dogs too! Participants will get to meet many of these exciting pets and observe them in action. Available for rising 3rd graders and older for a full day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) for four days during a single week (camp will not be held on Wednesdays for this particular camp)

Junior Dog Trainers and Junior Vet

Participants can come, sit, stay… and learn all about the latest methods in positive-reinforcement dog training. They will work with Richmond SPCA expert trainers to teach basic skills and tricks to homeless pets awaiting adoption, and they will have the chance to show off their work. Clickers, treats and training pouches are included. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the veterinary career. The campers will observe our veterinarian performing a physical exam and watch a spay/neuter surgery. The vet will speak with the kids about what it takes to be a veterinarian. We will discuss zoonotic diseases, learn how to give injections and much more. Available for rising 6th graders through 9th grade for a full day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Monday through Friday

Careers with Animals

Campers will learn about the various jobs that are available in caring for animals. They will learn about veterinary medicine, cleaning and feeding, training, grooming, adoption promotions and adoptions with hands-on activities in each department. Available for rising 6th graders through 9th grade for a full day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) Monday through Friday

Tricks are for Kids…and Dogs, Too!

This camp offers the unique opportunity for participants to learn to train their own dogs. Campers will attend training sessions alongside their canine companions during this week-long camp. They will learn basic skills and tricks with the help of Richmond SPCA expert trainers. The Richmond SPCA will provide treats, pouches, and clickers for training. Available for rising 6th graders through 9th grade (and each camper's dog – 6 months of age and older) for a half-day only – NO FULL DAY OPTION (9 a.m. to noon or 1:00 pm. to 4:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday

  • All dogs must be kid- and dog-friendly.
  • All dogs must be current on rabies vaccines (proof is required) and spayed/neutered.
  • All dogs should have flat collars and a 6’ leash (no chain leashes or prong collars)
  • All dogs must be comfortable with being in a crate for short periods of time.

Veterinary Career Observation Program
For those excited by science, who enjoy working with animals, and who would like to find out more about what it takes to become a veterinary professional, this program is just the ticket! Aspiring veterinarians and veterinary technicians will experience first-hand the fascinating world of veterinary medicine through this special camp – the only one of its kind in Virginia. View more informationAvailable for young adults ages 14 to 18 for a full day (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Monday through Friday.

All activities take place at the Richmond SPCA's state-of-the-art Robins-Starr Humane Center and are scheduled during the months of June, July and August.

Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill quickly. Or, contact Phyllis Harris by phone at 804-521-1327 or by e-mail at pharris@richmondspca.org for more information or to receive an offline registration form.

Please click here if you would like to make a donation in support of scholarships that allow children in need to attend Critter Camp.