Meet Our New Education Animal Ambassadors!
For more than 40 years, Helen Woodward Animal Center has been dedicated to teaching children about the humane treatment of animals. Through the hands-on programs in our Education Department, children can engage with nearly 70 different animal ambassadors. However, this isn’t an easy gig to come by; all potential animal ambassadors go through rigorous training before they can start participating in programs! That is why we are proud to introduce you to five brand new Education animal ambassadors!
Animal Ambassador: Rabbit
Mango
With his auburn fur and dreamy eyes, Mango will make anyone melt at first sight. Mango is a rescue rabbit who came to the Center after his owner could no longer care for him. This energetic bunny loves staying active and getting cuddles from the dedicated staff in our Education department.
As a so-called “people rabbit,” Mango was qualified to become an animal ambassador. Every candidate has to be patient and calm, as well as enjoy meeting people, to be considered for the role, according to Savannah Goehring, Assistant Manager of Animal Services at Helen Woodward Animal Center.
If your kids love to cuddle, the Center offers Interactive Animal Encounters where kids can experience educational activities and interact with our animal ambassadors like Mango. (You can learn more about these customizable adventures here.)
Animal Ambassadors: Guinea Pigs
Gus & Cinnamon
Guinea pigs Gus and Cinnamon were rescued together with around 45 guinea pigs from a dangerous environment with the help of Wee Companions Small Animal Rescue. Side by side, these two fuzzy friends have come a long way. After their 30-day trial period, something all potential ambassadors have to go through to adjust to their new home, these two guinea pigs with their sweet-as-candy temperaments will be ready to help teach children all about what makes them so unique!
Even if you aren’t able to interact with Gus and Cinnamon in person during these COVID-19 times, the Center offers a variety of Virtual Education options for all grade levels. There are activities for families, playgroups or classrooms to enjoy! (Find out more about our virtual learning opportunities here.)
Animal Ambassadors: Leopard Geckos
Blue & Echo
Last but not least, meet leopard geckos Blue and Echo. Their mesmerizing spots and colors alone are enough to keep kids entertained. They may be only 1 ½ years old, but they are well accustomed to interacting with people (a necessary quality to have when in the hands of children.)
Animal Camp for Kids in San Diego
These five incredible creatures have started their new adventure as animal ambassadors, and we know they will do us proud in helping with our Education programs! Coming soon: Spring Break Critter Camp! Packed with educational activities, crafts and interactions with an assortment of animals — including these newest ambassadors — this week-long camp is a great substitute for those no-school days. Take a look at camp details here and get ready to introduce your young animal lover to new friends!