education programs AT CrhS

Our humane education programs provide age appropriate presentations for schools, youth groups, and community and business organizations throughout La Crosse County and in neighboring counties when possible.

Humane Education Programs

The Coulee Region Humane Society is proud to offer engaging, age-appropriate education programs designed to promote empathy, kindness, and responsible behavior toward animals and one another. For years, we’ve partnered with schools, daycares, after-school programs, and community organizations throughout the Coulee Region to provide interactive presentations and meaningful discussions that connect people of all ages with the world of animal welfare.

Programs cover a variety of topics, typically lasting 30–45 minutes, and are tailored to fit the developmental level of each group.

How to Book a Program

To request an educational presentation, simply fill out our online inquiry form by clicking on the button below

  • Please submit your request at least four weeks in advance.

  • If you would like to include a visit from one of our Pet Therapy teams (Ambassadors of Love), please provide at least four weeks' notice so we can coordinate accordingly.

  • While we do our best to accommodate every request, earlier inquiries give us the best chance of scheduling a time that works for everyone.!

Ongoing Collaborations

CRHS is happy to collaborate on longer-term educational experiences. If you're interested in a recurring program or developing a custom curriculum that explores animal-related topics in greater depth, we’d love to partner with you. Please email Erin Olson at erin.olson@couleehumane.com with your ideas.
Note: At least one month’s notice is required for planning extended or recurring programming.

Elementary school kids laying on the floor snuggled up with a Golden Retriever Pet Therapy dog from the Coulee Region Humane Society's Ambassadors of Love Program.

Available Educational Presentations

Each presentation begins with an age-appropriate introduction to CRHS and ends with time for questions.

  • Getting to Know You
    Introduces students to safe and respectful behavior around dogs and cats. Focuses on reading animal body language, bite prevention, and the basics of pet care.

    Helping Hands
    Explores kindness and empathy through examples of how animals help people—and how we can help animals and each other.

    Are You Ready for a Pet?
    Encourages children to think about the responsibilities of pet ownership. Covers what pets need to be happy and healthy, both at home and in the shelter.

  • Animal Adaptations
    A look at how animals adapt to their environments for survival, with discussion on the interconnectedness of all living things. Suitable for younger students as well.

    What Is an Animal Shelter?
    Explains the role animal shelters play in our communities and explores how kids can support their local shelter.

  • What Is Animal Cruelty?
    Covers the different forms of animal cruelty and neglect, local laws and ordinances, and the work of Humane Officers. Topics include puppy mills, dog fighting, and animal abuse, with a focus on prevention and advocacy.

    Careers in Animal Care
    Introduces a variety of career paths in animal welfare. Includes information on roles within CRHS and handouts outlining each department’s function in supporting shelter animals.

Help Shape the Future of Our Programs

Educator feedback helps us grow! If there’s a topic you’d like covered that’s not currently offered, please let us know. Your idea might become our next featured program!


Interested in booking a wildlife program at your school or organization?

Wildlife programs are available for $150 and within a 60 mile radius of Onalaska, WI.

Payment will be collected after confirmation that we can accommodate your request. We reserve the right to deny requests based on availability.