Shelter Dogs Meet Summer Camp Kids
Apr 29, 2026 08:00AM ● By Ann Marie O’Phelan
“Since opening its doors in 2020, Cape Coral Animal Shelter (CCAS) has been committed not only to saving animals, but also to educating the next generation about compassion and responsible pet ownership,” explains Liz McCauley, Executive Director.
"Children discover how to recognize a dog's emotions, approach unfamiliar dogs safely, and understand what pets need to stay healthy and happy," says Liz McCauley, Executive Director of Cape Coral Animal Shelter.
One way the shelter is doing so is through partnerships with the Lee County School System. Every summer, the dedicated CCAS volunteers visit local schools with shelter dogs and interactive lessons. More than 600 children annually benefit from this experience, which offers demonstrations, instructions, hands-on activities, and a chance to learn how to safely and respectfully interact with dogs.
“Children also discover how to recognize a dog’s emotions, approach unfamiliar dogs safely, and understand what pets need to stay healthy and happy,” adds McCauley.
Another way that CCAS has expanded its educational outreach is through a formal program called the Pet Education Initiative. “This new initiative brings structured classroom presentations into local schools throughout the year, allowing the shelter to reach even more students with important lessons about empathy, animal welfare, and responsible pet care,” explains McCauley. The center of the curriculum is the engaging story “Doggie Do’s and Don’ts as Told by Cadence the Dog,” written by Robin Lapre and illustrated by Isabella Orozco. This offers students the chance to explore real-life pet care lessons in an educational and entertaining way. They also learn about the CCA, highlighting the importance of adoption, responsible pet ownership, and treating animals with compassion and care.
By expanding youth education to a year-round classroom program, CCAS strives to reach thousands of students across Lee County and inspire a lifelong respect for animals.
CCAS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to sheltering and finding homes for animals in need while promoting responsible pet ownership through education, community outreach, and compassionate care. For more information about the Pet Education Initiative or to schedule a classroom, email [email protected].
Plan Your Visit: Cape Coral Animal Shelter & Veterinary Clinic, 325 SW 2nd Avenue, Cape Coral, 239-573-2002, capecoralanimalshelter.com.
Ann Marie O’Phelan is a SW Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.
