From summer camp to a lifelong passion for animals.

When 12-year-old Isabella first attended an Edmonton Humane Society (EHS) education camp, she already had a deep love for animals. But after participating in the program, she gained a whole new level of understanding.

Isabella’s Story

“I learned about animal body language, which has taught me to respect animals way better than I already did,” she shared. Lessons like these helped Isabella appreciate how animals communicate and how to interact with them in a way that builds trust and safety. “Animals have always had a soft spot in my heart because of the way they are,” she said. “However, after these programs, I learned way more than what I already knew, such as not to pet a dog on the head.”

Her journey with EHS didn’t stop there. Over the years, Isabella has taken part in multiple camps, completed the Pet-Sitters Course and volunteered alongside her family. She even had the opportunity to tour our veterinary clinic—one of her highlights—gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the care animals receive. These experiences have only deepened her passion for animal welfare, and now she hopes to turn that into a career. “I would like to become a veterinary doctor or marine biologist to help animals,” she shared.

Beyond the education and hands-on experiences, the best part of these programs for Isabella has been the connections she’s made. “Meeting all the animals and the volunteers’ pets has been my favourite part because I made so many friends, both with animals and people!” She also treasures the sense of calm she feels at EHS, saying, “I just love how peaceful the shelter is and seeing animals get adopted.”

By engaging young minds like Isabella’s through our Humane Education programs, EHS is shaping the next generation of compassionate leaders in animal welfare—one inspired heart at a time.