Youth Education

The Animal Pad is excited to offer an education program that aims to cultivate and promote a positive connection between youth and animals throughout San Diego.  We seek to make impactful connections with our community and create a healthy and safe relationship between youth and animals. We believe that all children deserve the opportunity to engage and create meaningful relationships with rescue dogs and learn how to respect, advocate, and show kindness to humans and animals.

These programs are led by Missy Waters, who has been volunteering with TAP for 3 years. In addition to her work with TAP, she has a masters in educational counseling with 5 years school based experience and 5 additional years of experience working with children in various other settings. This programs will be ran by other volunteers but materials are made by Missy. 

Camp Tappy Tails 

A camp for dog loving children ages 7-12.  Campers will bring their own lunches. Safety is our number one priority, therefore direct contact will only be made with dogs that have been fully vetted and tested with children.

Summer Camp: Each camp will be one week long (each week will be the same). The campers will learn all about dogs and the world of rescue including dog behavior, safety and the importance of rescuing. Activities will include making toys and treats for the dogs, painting pictures of the dogs and with the dogs, playing dog themed games and reading to the kennel dogs from outside their kennel.

For more information email Missy at Mlw.theanimalpad@gmail.com.

2025 Camp Interest

Birthday Parties

Do you have a dog loving kiddo in your life with a birthday coming up? The Animal Pad is a great place to have your kiddos birthday. Parties are available on Saturdays or Sundays between 10:30am and 4 pm.

Our basic parties are $300 and include the following:

• -2 hours of party time (you may arrive 30 mins early to set up decorate)
• -Tables, chairs, basic decorations and canopy, etc (all food, plates, etc need to be provided by you)
• -Hands on interactions with our dogs, choice of dog related activities (dog baths, making treats, dog craft, dog games) 
• -Up to 12 children 

To book please fill out the request form below. Please note that this is a volunteer run program so please allow up to 72 hours for a response. 

Birthday Party Request