Camp Fur-Ever Friends Mission
Camp Fur-Ever Friends exists to cultivate the next generation of responsible, compassionate pet owners — and to inspire future adopters, volunteers, fosters, donors, and animal welfare professionals. Through hands-on experiences with shelter animals and guidance from local veterinary, behavioral, and animal welfare experts, we help kids build empathy, confidence, and lifelong respect for animals and the people who care for them.
Growing kind hearts and future animal advocates — one paw at a time.
More Than a Summer Camp
Camp Fur-Ever Friends is a one-of-a-kind summer experience hosted at the Tails of Hope animal shelter in Pittsford, Vermont. Young animal lovers ages 6–12 spend their days surrounded by shelter animals, expert educators, and hands-on activities that make a real difference.
Campers don’t just learn about animals — they help care for them. Every craft made, every treat decorated, every toy built goes directly to the animals in our shelter. By the end of camp, your child won’t just have had a great summer, they’ll have become an animal advocate.
Our curriculum is guided by our core mission: to foster empathy, responsibility, and respect for all living beings — and to inspire the next generation of animal welfare champions.
Read all about the adventures and see photos from the 2026 Camp Fur-Ever Friends sessions. Click the buttons below.
Thank you to our generous Sponsors!
Camp Fur-Ever Friends wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our local business community. This summer’s adventures — from animal care lessons to nature hikes tohands-on time with our shelter pets — are made possible thanks to the support of businesses who believe in giving Rutland County kids a summer full of paws, purpose, and fun.
To our sponsors: thank you for investing in the next generation of animal lovers and for helping us build a brighter
future for the pets and people of our community.
TWO PROGRAMS, TWO FUN-FILLED WEEKS OF ADVENTURE & LEARNING
Programs Designed for Every Age
Each age group has its own curriculum, daily schedule, and level of hands-on involvement — all designed to meet kids exactly where they are.
Pet Pals
9 AM - 3 PM
Animal Advocates
9 AM - 3 PM
Camp Fur-Ever Friends at Rutland County Humane Society gives kids a real, hands-on look at shelter life, from animal care and nutrition to advocacy and animal careers. Each day has a themed focus, blending outdoor activities, games, and creative projects with meaningful learning. By Friday, campers will earn their certificate at a campfire celebration and will leave with new skills, lots of love, and a deeper respect for animals.
Monday
Critter Care 101: Meet the shelter team and “adopt” your very own stuffed animal
Tuesday
Nose to Toes: Explore animal anatomy and the importance of pet nutrition
Wednesday
Pawsome Professionals: Hear from real animal-career experts about life working with animals
Thursday
Animal Advocacy: Discover how kids can make a difference for animals at home and beyond
Friday
Campfire Celebration: Recap the week and earn your official camper certificate
What Your Child Will Experience
Animal Interactions
Learn safe, respectful ways to interact with animals, including cats and dogs. Our trained staff guide every interaction and demonstrate the safety measures that protect both campers and animals.
Career Exploration
Dive into the fascinating jobs you can have in the world of animals including veterinary work, animal control, grooming, and training. Special guests from these fields will come to share their adventures.
Animal Education
Uncover new knowledge about the bodies of animals from anatomy to nutrition to behavior. Explore these areas through creative activities, interactive games and lots of fun!
Creative Projects
Enjoy hands-on creative projects, such as making animal enrichment toys, designing animal-themed art, and developing adoption profiles for the animals you meet.
Expert Guests
Meet guest speakers who share their unique experience working with and advocating for animals. This is a great way to get a tastes of future career interests.
Animal Advocacy
Discover the power of animal advocacy and how you can make a big difference in the lives of animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my child wear to camp?
Comfortable, camp-appropriate clothing they don’t mind getting a little dirty is perfect. Closed-toe shoes and long pants are required due to animal interactions. Some activities are outdoors so a hat or sunglasses may be appropriate.
Are the animals safe for kids?
All animals selected for camper interactions are pre-screened and approved by our trained staff. Every session is fully supervised and we teach animal safety skills before every interaction. Your child’s safety is our top priority.
Is food provided?
Your child must bring a packed lunch. We will provide a morning and afternoon snack. If your child has any allergies or dietary needs, please add to the medical form in the registration process.
What should they bring?
Please send a water bottle and a packed lunch each day. We provide snacks and water refills. Some activities are outside, so we recommend sunscreen and bug spray for reapplication as needed.
How do I communicate with my child?
We do not allow participants to use any type of electronic equipment at camp. Cell phones should be off and in their backpacks. Campers can be reached via the Rutland County Humane Society at 802-483-6700 as necessary.
What is the refund policy if my child cannot attend camp after payment is received?
We will determine refund eligibility on a case by case basis.