Education Programs

The Wisconsin Humane Society offers several age appropriate programs for classroom groups that are wild about animals. All programs take place on-site at WHS where we can guide children as they watch, listen and learn about animals. Both wild and companion animal programs are approximately one hour in length and offered Tuesday through Thursday between 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. There is a $1.50 fee per student (10 students minimum) for programs, which helps support the WHS veterinary clinic for low-income families and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Be sure to book early, these programs fill fast! For more information or to request a program, please contact the Education Department at 414-431-6159 or education@wihumane.org.

Animal Talk
Is my dog happy? Why does my cat purr? Animals may not speak to us with words, but they have other ways to communicate what they are feeling. Students will be guided through the Wisconsin Humane Society using their observational skills to help decipher the language of our companion animals. Understanding what an animal is saying can keep kids safe. Barking, meowing, wagging, stretching and smiling are required!
K5 - 2nd grade

Self-guided tours are available for K4 and preschool groups. Please contact education@wihumane.org for more information.

WHS 101
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of WHS.
Learn how shelter staff and volunteers
transform unwanted companion animals into great family members and how
injured and orphaned wild animals get a second chance. You will see the Wildlife Gallery, Veterinary Hospital, Guest
Lodging and Adoption Avenue. Self-
guided tours are available for pre-schoolers. Call 414-431-6159 to schedule a tour for your classroom group.
3rd Grade - High School

Wildlife Detectives
Did you know that the Wisconsin Humane Society is home to one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation centers in the nation? Students transform into Wildlife Detectives for this exciting wildlife program. They will become more aware of the needs of wildlife and their roles in promoting quality life for wild animals. Various aspects of wildlife rehabilitation are covered, including what wildlife rehabilitation is, how to recognize an animal in need, when to leave wildlife alone and how they can help wildlife in their own lives.
3rd – 6th Grade

Classrooms Go WILD!
To participate in the program, classrooms conduct a service project to benefit the animals at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, and in return, they receive a special behind-the-scenes wildlife tour, an opportunity to meet a wild animal in the Wisconsin Humane Society’s care, and a certificate with a picture of the animal they are sponsoring. Teachers receive additional resources and activities for their classroom.
K5 - 6th Grade

So You Want to Work With Animals?
There are many different opportunities available to people who choose to work with animals. Take a walk behind the scenes of the Wisconsin Humane Society to see some of the rewarding professions chosen by our staff and volunteers. Our career program focuses on student strengths and abilities along with offering information on the volunteer or work experience necessary to obtain a career involving animals.
5th grade - High School

Dog Fighting Awareness Workshop
Dog Fighting affects more than just animals. Through the Wisconsin Humane Society’s Dog Fighting Awareness Workshop, students discover the impact that dog fighting has on our community. Students discuss some of the reasons people may choose to fight their dogs and healthy alternatives that would meet those same needs. They will also examine the myths about dog fighting and pit bull-type dogs and learn the facts to dispel these myths.
7th Grade - High School