Longview Animal Shelter Teams with Nonprofit to Teach Children About Pet Care
Published: 5:35 am Monday, October 5, 2026
The Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center has partnered with the nonprofit CARE Team – East Texas to provide animal welfare education in local schools.
“The purpose of this partnership is to strengthen humane education and help young people understand responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and the role that shelters play in the community,” said Brittany Mills, the community outreach coordinator for the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center.
This program, currently in its pilot year, is being developed with resources from both the animal center and CARE Team. There is no limit to the number of schools that can participate, and additional funding will be sought as the program expands.
Mills emphasized that each organization contributes unique strengths to the initiative. CARE Team has created the program’s structure and curriculum, while LACAC brings its educational experience and understanding of community needs. “Together, we built on successful elements rather than reinventing the wheel,” Mills said.
The program launched in September at Small Steps Learning Academy in Longview, featuring interactive stations focused on feeding, cleaning, veterinary care, and handling lost pets.
“It was very hands-on, age-appropriate and professional,” said Shae Rimes, the owner of Small Steps. Rimes highlighted the program’s effectiveness in teaching children the responsibilities of pet ownership, emphasizing the need for follow-through in caring for animals.
“I would gladly partner with them again,” Rimes added.
Schools interested in participating can contact the program via email at careteamtx@gmail.com or blmills@longviewtexas.gov.
