Youth Apprenticeship Program
For youth curious about animals and the people who help them, the Youth Apprenticeship Program offers a closer look at life inside a humane society.
Overview
The Youth Apprenticeship Program is a 10-week program for students in Grades 7–10. Participants explore how GHS cares for animals and serves the community through hands-on learning, animal experiences, and time with the people who do this work.
Sessions cover animal care, basic pet first aid, animal services, fundraising, and other parts of shelter operations. Youth work together, ask questions, and build their understanding of animal welfare. The program also includes two optional volunteer opportunities where participants can earn volunteer hours. A visit to a farm or sanctuary is planned for the current session.
Animal experiences are guided by what is comfortable and appropriate for the animals and participants.
Fall 2026 dates
Choose one of two 10-week groups. Registration is $299 for the full program. The Tuesday group has no session on December 1.
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24 Sep – 26 Nov 2026
Fall 2026 Thursday group
Underway
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6 Oct – 15 Dec 2026
Fall 2026 Tuesday group
Underway
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6 Jan – 11 Mar 2027
Winter 2027 Thursday group
$299
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12 Jan – 23 Mar 2027
Winter 2027 Tuesday Group
$299
Questions? Email programs@guelphhumane.ca or call 519-824-3091.
Frequently asked questions
Sessions take place at the Guelph Humane Society, 190 Hanlon Creek Blvd., Guelph. Participants will receive details about any off-site visit.
No previous experience is listed as a requirement. The program is designed for youth who want to learn more about animals and the work of a humane society.
There are two optional volunteer opportunities during the program where participants can earn hours. Participation in regular sessions should not be counted as volunteer time.
The program includes animal experiences when they are appropriate for the animals and participants. The animals’ comfort and well-being guide each interaction.
No. The Guelph Humane Society is not a peanut-free facility.
Refunds or exchanges requested before 10 a.m. two weeks before the program begins are subject to a 20% administration fee. After that time, refunds are at GHS’s discretion. To ask about a booking, email programs@guelphhumane.ca.
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