Humane Education
At the Bow Valley SPCA, part of our mission is to "promote humane attitudes and practices towards animals throughout our community", so offering humane education is a big part of what we do. Check out our programs.
School Presentations
In-class visits introduce students to the Bow Valley SPCA, discuss the role of SPCAs in communities and promote the Five Freedoms.
- Educators will visit classrooms from Pre-School to Grade 12.
- Presentations will focus on Pet Responsibility and Humane Treatment and other topics specific to age, grade and school curriculum.
- Presentation length is from 30 minutes to 1 hour, and determined upon discussion with the classroom teacher.
Interested in a classroom visit? Fill out a Request Form or email info@bowvalleyspca.org.
Centre Tours
Tours can be booked to get a more in-depth perspective of the uniqueness of our Centre and our programs.
One-hour tour of facility includes:
- Orientation of BVSPCA, including cat and dog intro for visitors ages 6 to adult.
- Waivers are required for anyone participating in the tour of the BVSCPCA.
- Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
Interested in a tour? Fill out a Request Form or email us at info@bowvalleyspca.org.
Humane Education for Kids
The Humane Treatment Education Program is aimed at grade school kids.
Several modules have been developed by our Education Committee and can be delivered by qualified volunteers. These presentations are approximately 40 minutes in length.
Email us at info@bowvalleyspca.org for more information.
The Five Freedoms
The Five Freedoms outline five aspects of animal welfare under human control. The Five Freedoms have been adopted by professional groups including veterinarians and most organizations committed to the humane treatment of animals.
The five freedoms as currently expressed are:
- Freedom from hunger and thirst by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour.
- Freedom from discomfort by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
- Freedom from pain, injury or disease by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
- Freedom to express (most) normal behaviour by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind.
- Freedom from fear and distress by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.