Spending a week with tons of cats and dogs ... what more could a child ask for? That's exactly what children who attend the Catawba County Humane Society's K9-9 Lives Summer Camp will get.

The camp, which held its first week June 22-26, has several classes for children in grades first through sixth to teach them how to properly care for an animal.

"We teach the children about animal safety, grooming, kindness and sharing, the importance of spaying and neutering your pet and animal cruelty," said Pam Sprague, humane society volunteer manager.

During the first week of camp, seven children participated. Sprague explained that they not only cared for and trained animals, but they baked cookies and dog treats and created several different crafts, such as a pillow with a cat or dog picture on the front.

For campers, Maddie and Lillian, one of their favorite crafts during the week was making the dog pillows, especially for Lillian, who was resting on her pillow during a break in the class.

Sprague added that majority of the items used during the baking and craft sessions were provided as donations from the Target Distribution Center.

"We throw in as many diversions as possible," Sprague said. "We do a new craft every day. They will take the craft home and remember all of us and remember where they made it."

In addition to Sprague, Lara Moore, adoption counselor, and Jane Bowers, director of development, also share animal stories and specific ways to care for pets.

Aside from the fun crafts, the children experienced first-hand preparation for several spay and neuter surgeries at the humane society.

"It's important for them to get this exposure and have their questions answered," said Moore. "They can then go out and act as ambassadors and be responsible pet owners."

Since learning how to bathe and brush a dog was one of the camp's activities, each child participated.

"I got soaked," Lillian said. "My dog kept shaking. I was the wettest one."

Each week is limited to 20 children. For children entering grades first through third, camps are available July 13-17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and July 27-31 and Aug. 17-21 from 9 a.m. to noon. For students in grades fourth through sixth,  one more camp is available Aug. 10-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For camps from 9 a.m. to noon, the cost is $100 per child per week. For those lasting from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the cost is $175 per child per week.

"It's fun and educational," Sprague said. "They learn something and have a good time while they are here. I know I'm having a ball!"

To register your child or for more information, call the humane society at (828) 464-8878.