In this episode of Keep it Humane, Daniel and Ashley explore an inspiring initiative where teens aren’t just learning about animal welfare—they’re actively shaping it. We dig into the story of the Snake River Animal Shelter’s “Paws for a Cause” program, which brought local teenagers into direct service with shelter animals and their community. East Idaho News
You’ll hear how the five-week program immerses teens in the world of animal care, advocacy and emotional growth—starting with tours and instruction on humane treatment, engaging presentations from animal control officers and vet techs, and then reaching a hands-on high point: creating enrichment activities for shelter pets and a visit to a nearby assisted-living facility with a shelter dog in tow. East Idaho News
We’ll discuss how this kind of humane education benefits everyone involved:
For teens: building life skills, emotional health, leadership, and a sense of purpose. East Idaho News
For shelter animals: improved socialization, enrichment, and increased chances of adoption. East Idaho News
For the community: stronger connections between youth, animal welfare and service.
We’ll also unpack how shelters and agencies can replicate or adapt similar programs in their own jurisdictions—even if resources are limited—and how these initiatives tie into larger themes of staff and volunteer engagement, retention, and building culture in animal welfare (something we often talk about on this show).
Grab your earbuds, because this conversation brings hope, practical ideas and a reminder that when young people are empowered—and animals are included—the ripple effects can be powerful.
Takeaways for listeners:
What it actually looks like to run a hands-on humane education program for teens.
How to measure and communicate the benefits for all stakeholders (teens, animals, shelters, community).
Ideas for adapting the model to your local animal control or shelter setting.
Lessons on staff and volunteer culture: empowering younger generations, creating meaningful roles, and building an inclusive “we” culture.
Inspiration for turning caring into action—both for the animals you serve, and the people working in the trenches every day.