SPCA offers scholarships for kids to attend animal camps

SPCA Monterey County is reminding families that applications for summer Animal Camp scholarships close Friday at noon as registration for several camp programs continues to fill up.

The organization said demand for its 2026 Summer Animal Camps has increased this year, especially with the addition of its new Junior Vet Camp program for children ages 10 to 12.

"We don't want any child to miss out on this experience because of a deadline or a budget," said Kennedy Rivera, SPCA community educator in a press release.

Rivera said the scholarship program is intended to help ensure children interested in animals are able to attend camp regardless of financial circumstances.

"Once Friday at noon hits, the scholarship lottery closes, and remaining camp spots will likely be gone shortly after," Rivera said.

The camps are held at the SPCA's Claire Jacobson Learning Center and include activities focused on animal care, safety and welfare. Campers participate in hands-on lessons involving animal handling and rescue basics, and also make toys and treats for shelter animals waiting for adoption.

The camps also include opportunities for children to meet rescued wildlife, horses and barn animals.

The new Junior Vet Camp is expected to be the first program to sell out. The weeklong camp is scheduled for July 27 through July 31.

Other camp sessions include Animal Camp for children ages 7 to 12, which runs weekly from June 8 through July 24, and the ABC's of the SPCA camp for children ages 5 to 7, scheduled for Aug. 3 through Aug. 7.

Families seeking scholarships must submit applications before noon Friday. Registration for remaining camp openings is also ongoing, according to the SPCA.

Parents should register today at www.spcamc.org/camp. Families seeking full-registration scholarships must submit their application at www.spcamc.org/camp-scholarship before Friday at noon.

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