PARL HUMANE EDUCATION PROGRAM GUIDE
“Saving Grace” – A True RI Rescue Story
Program participants will meet a little spaniel mix named “Grace” and follow her incredible journey from life as a stray on the streets of Providence (during one of the coldest winters on record), to a valued, hard-working member of our canine education team. Grace has a wonderful “attitude of gratitude” and charms everyone from toddlers to great-grandparents with her sweet, gentle nature.
All ages * 45 – 60 minutes
Pets and People 101
Discover that, just like people, companion animals have basic needs like healthy food, clean water, a safe place to live and someone to call a friend. This program uses hands-on materials to teach children how to be kind and respectful to animals. Children will learn about the wonderful benefits of the human-animal bond. Basic animal safety skills are taught in a positive, non-threatening way. When possible, a live animal will accompany the program presenter.
All ages * 45 - 60 minutes
SPEAK! The Language of Dogs (new!)
This new program focuses on basic safety and good manners, for dogs and kids! Children are taught dog training basics and how hand signals, body language, facial expression and tone of voice can all be used to communicate with dogs. Children use American Sign Language to give their pet or favorite stuffed animal a unique “sign name” that will be theirs forever! When possible, a live animal will accompany the program presenter.
All ages * 45 - 60 minutes
Inside PARL
Groups of 8 to 20 explore the world of animal sheltering from behind the scenes while on a guided tour of The Providence Animal Rescue League. Students will learn the common reasons why animals are surrendered to the League for adoption, how animals are cared for while they are being sheltered here, and how the adoption process works. Our educators will answer your questions about the Providence Animal Rescue League in this interactive presentation.
5th grade – Adult * 60 -75 minutes
The Art of Compassion
This brand-new program is perfect for the classroom, library settings, summer vacation programs and after-school programs for children of ALL ages, and those that are young at heart! Program participants are guided to focus on three images of the human-animal relationship and encouraged to express these feelings in words and drawings. When possible, a live animal will accompany the program presenter.
4th grade – Adult * 60 to 90 minutes
A Sheltered Life – Or “Lola” and Her Incredible Shrinking Coat!
Students will learn the real stories of “Lola” and many other sheltered animals in an in-depth look at the world of animal sheltering in RI. We will focus on the reasons animals are lost, abandoned or surrendered and on the heroic work of well-known animal welfare organizations from around the state and across the country that do everything within their power to give these animals a second chance. When possible, a live animal will accompany the program presenter.
6th grade – Adult * 45- 60 minutes
Careers with Animals
What is hippotherapy anyway? Students take a realistic look at a variety of established and newly emerging professions that involve working with animals. We will look at careers in animal sheltering, wildlife management, field research, animal behavior, mounted police, pet therapy, zoo keeping, K9 police officer, pet grooming, search and rescue, and many more. Students will learn about local organizations that are creating new and innovative ways to bring animals and people together in the workplace. Guest speakers may be available and, when possible, live animal(s) will accompany program presenter. Email education@parl.org or call 421-1399 for more details.
4th grade and up * Time and fees vary by program scope
How Much IS That Doggie in the Window? The Inside Scoop on Puppy Mills
For older students and adults, this class focuses on the hot-button topic of puppy mills and explores the multi-billion dollar commercial dog breeding business and the retail sale of man’s best friend.
6th grade and up * Time and fees vary by program scope
Out of the Pit & Into our Hearts – A Workshop on Responsible Pit Bull Ownership
For older students and adults, this informative workshop is led by behaviorist and dog trainer Melissa Iacavone. This class explores the myths vs. realities surrounding Pit Bulls and presents useful information for owners, friends, neighbors, and those considering adoption. Melissa provides a history of the breed, a behavioral and body language profile, and highly effective methods for training and handling Pit Bulls.
6th grade and up * Time and fees vary by program scope
Invite Us To Your Special Event!
PARL would love to visit your career day, special event, fair or field day. We’ll bring informational materials and also encourage children and families visitors to talk to us about animal welfare issues, adoption policies and animals in general. When possible, small animals accompany presenter.

FEE schedule for Programs
We have four options available:
· 180⁰ Turn – sponsor a cage at the shelter for 180 days for $180 and earn two programs
· In-kind monetary donations – target $100 per program
· Shelter wish list gifts - target $100 per program (see www.parl.org for wish list)
· Service Learning Project to benefit PARL animals – contact Director of Humane Education for details
To schedule a program or to learn more about any of our programs, contact our Executive Director, Virginia Hanbridge @ education@parl.org, (401) 421-1399 ext. 210 or visit our website at www.parl.org.
We’ll be happy to work with you to bring great programs to your students!