Large-animal vet Dr. Lyndsay Klemens draws on a horse with temporary paint to teach kids about horses' physiology.
Photos by Dennis Proud
(Click on photos to enlarge)
The LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter is so much more than just a temporary place for animals needing a second chance. Shelter Director Jane Bernard and her staff have created a haven where abandoned pets have a solid chance of finding new, forever homes. The shelter at 2855 W. Ind. 2 is bright, squeaky clean and inviting. And Jane and the staff go above and beyond, working tirelessly to find new homes for pets, rehabilitating abandoned animals, investigating animal abuse cases, and offering special programs to teach children and adults alike about animal care.
Such is the case this week, June 15-17, 2010, as the shelter hosts an Animal Care Camp to teach kids ages 6-12 about taking care of pets. Among features during the three-day camp are kennel work, pet first aid, traveling with pets, small- and large-animal care as taught by local veterinarians, playtime with pets, a visit with a police officer and his police dog, grooming, and making bandannas for adopted dogs.
Besides Jane, her staff and other guests, the camp is being led by Miranda Reeves, an animal behaviorist.
Here are some scenes from Day 1 of Animal Care Camp at the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter.
LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter Director Jane Bernard employs her own patient pet, Gus, to teach campgoers the basics of pet first aid.
Shelter worker Deb Vlietstra leads kids through a pet first-aid lesson with the help of a happy pooch.
Tyler Wilke shows the stories a horse's teeth can tell.
Dr. Lisa Polazzi shows kids how to bandage a pet's leg.
Kids respond to Dr. Klemens' questions.
Shelter Director Jane Bernard teaches first-aid techniques.
