Community Events

We offer presentations and events to adults in support of our goal to teach members of our community the importance of treating animals in a humane way—a lesson that will benefit them and the animals in our community for a lifetime.

No Other Community Events

Community education

Our Humane Education team offers programs for adults that are free and available throughout the Denver metro area, year-round. To register and schedule a program, email programs@ddfl.org. Include your name, organization, program desired and contact phone number.

Animal Abuse and the Violence Connection

Description:
Participants learn about the cycle of abuse and the strong link between animal abuse and other violent crimes. Together, the class explores Colorado laws pertaining to animals and how animal cruelty investigators help protect them. By the end of this class, participants will understand several strategies to help prevent animal abuse and violence and to foster respect and compassion in their communities and schools.

Grades: 9-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Cat Behavior

Description:
Why do cats rub against furniture? Are they predators or prey? This lesson explores the behavior of our lovable feline friends and discusses some of the challenges they face in our society. Participants will also learn why owning a cat is good for your health!

Grades: 6-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Click & Learn: Behavior Training for Pets

Description:

The Dumb Friends League strongly believes in positive reinforcement clicker training. In this program, you will learn what clicker training is and how to use to teach your pet cool new tricks or address behavior issues.

Grades: 3-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Dumb Friends League 101

Description:
Have you been supporting the Dumb Friends League for years but would like to know more? Are you new to Colorado and want to learn more about the largest animal shelter in the Rocky Mountain Region? Our Dumb Friends League 101 lesson will give you the details about who we are, what we do and how you can help as a member of the community.

Grades: Adult

Session Length: 30 minutes

Dumb Friends League 101 and Shelter Tour

Description:
Have you been supporting the Dumb Friends League for years but would like to know more? Are you new to Colorado and want to learn more about the largest animal shelter in the Rocky Mountain Region? Our Dumb Friends League 101 lesson will give you the details about who we are, what we do and how you can help as a member of the community. A tour of the Leslie A Malone Center will follow. Please note that there is no contact with the animals.

Grades: This program is for ages 16+

Session Length:

Mini-series: Animal Adventures

Description:

Looking for a more comprehensive program? Our Animal Adventures program provides in-depth opportunities for students to learn about animals and involves a variety of topics plus an optional shelter tour during the final week. Not sure which lessons to pick? Ask for recommendations from our humane education coordinators about the best choices for your group.

Grades: Adults

Session Length:

Pet Learning Theory

Description:

How does a pet learn? Ever wonder why your dog gets excited when you pick up your car keys? In this class, participants discover why our pets behave in certain ways. Topics include classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement and training techniques.

Grades: 9-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Puppy Mills

Description:
How much is that doggy in the window? Today, there are several outlets you can turn to when you’re looking for a pet, but some options are better than others. In this class, participants discover the truth behind puppy mills and the price these dogs pay to meet the public’s demand for puppies.

Grades: 9-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Shelter Tour

Description:
Guided walking tours are available at our Leslie A. Malone Center in Denver and at the Buddy Center in Castle Rock. They include a guided walk through our shelter. Tours may also include a lesson in our education center. Please note that there is no contact with animals. Email humaneeducation@ddfl.org for information, including tour capacity.

Grades: Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Too Many Pets, Not Enough Homes: Overpopulation

Description:
This class challenges participants to discuss pet overpopulation and why it is a problem. Participants learn about spaying and neutering and why this simple surgery is a healthy, responsible choice for our pets.

Grades: 2-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes

Understanding Pets: Why They Do what They Do

Description:
Have you ever wondered why your pet engages in what seems like strange behavior from time to time? This program dives into our companion animals’ body language and basic behaviors that they have carried over from their ancient ancestors.

Grades: 9-12, Adults

Session Length: 45 minutes