Kids Programs

Holiday Camp

At Holiday Critter Camp, kids make friends, meet animals, and learn through play to understand and care for them with kindness and respect.

Group of smiling children gathered around a beagle at a holiday camp

Overview

There’s plenty for kids to do while school is out. Campers make crafts, play games together, and explore the world of animals through activities made for curious minds. They’ll learn how animals communicate, what they need to stay healthy, and how GHS cares for them.

Animal guests may join the fun when it’s appropriate for them and the campers. Families can book one day or several days across the break.

Questions? Email programs@guelphhumane.ca or call 519-824-3091.

2026 Holiday Camp dates

Holiday Critter Camp is for children currently in Grades 1–6. Choose the days that work for your family.

If a day is full, email programs@guelphhumane.ca to ask about the waitlist.

Before care is available from 8 to 9 AM. and after care from 4 to 5 PM and must be arranged in advance. Last minute requests for before and after care cannot be guaranteed. The cost is $10 per child, per session. You can add care while registering your child for camp days. After care is not available on Dec. 31, when camp ends at 3 PM. If you need to add before or after care after you have completed your registration, please email programs@guelphhumane.ca.

Frequently asked questions

What will my child do at camp?

Each day includes games, crafts, and activities about animals, their care and behaviour, and the work of GHS.

Will campers meet animals?

Campers may meet animal guests during the day. Visits depend on what is appropriate for the animals and the campers.

Can my child attend more than one day?

Yes. You can choose the individual camp days that work for your family.

What should my child bring?

Please send your child with:

  • A full lunch and two snacks
  • A filled water bottle
  • Indoor shoes and outdoor footwear
  • A coat and clothing suited to the weather
  • An extra pair of socks

Our facility is not peanut-free.

Can my child bring a phone or tablet?

Please leave cellphones, tablets, and other valuable items at home.

Are before and after care services available?

Before care is available from 8 to 9 AM. and after care from 4 to 5 PM and must be arranged in advance. Last minute requests for before and after care cannot be guaranteed. The cost is $10 per child, per session. You can add care while registering your child for camp days. After care is not available on Dec. 31, when camp ends at 3 PM. If you need to add before or after care after you have completed your registration, please email programs@guelphhumane.ca.

Can I talk to someone about my child’s support needs?

Yes. Email programs@guelphhumane.ca to discuss your child’s needs and their camp experience before registering.

What if the day I want is full?

Email programs@guelphhumane.ca to ask to join the waitlist. We can contact you if a space opens.

What is the refund policy?

Please be advised that once you have registered your child for Holiday Camp, a portion of your payment that is non-refundable. Refund or exchange requests made before 10 AM on Dec. 1, 2026, are subject to a 20 per cent administration fee. After that time, refunds are at GHS’s discretion. Please review your selected dates before completing registration.