School Field Trip to Purr & Play Leads to a Special Adoption
Published on November 05, 2026
School Field Trip to Purr & Play Leads to a Special Adoption
Brayden and Sheena
A field trip designed to teach sixth-grade students about animal care became something even more meaningful when one student’s connection with shelter cats inspired his family to adopt a new family member.
More than 60 sixth-grade students from the Community School of Naples recently visited Purr & Play, an interactive cat room at North Collier Regional Park, a joint venture between Collier County Domestic Animal Services (DAS) and Collier County Parks. The visit combined hands-on learning, community service, and opportunities to connect with adoptable animals.
Students kicked off the day with a trivia competition featuring questions about DAS programs and services. The winning team earned a special prize: the opportunity to name shelter dogs and cats. Breakout sessions gave students hands-on experience on what to do when they find a lost pet, the importance of spay and neuter services and vaccinations, the role of Animal Control Officers, and how volunteers help animals in need. Students also learned about careers in animal care, how to respond responsibly to situations such as finding kittens outdoors, the differences between wild and domesticated animals, and even made fleece blankets for the shelter animals.
For many, the highlight was spending time with adoptable cats, including Tartar Sauce and Skittles.
For sixth-grade student Brayden, the visit sparked a special connection. He was particularly taken with Tartar Sauce and went home eager to tell his family about the cats he had met during what he called his “favorite class trip.” He encouraged his family to visit Purr & Play so they could experience it for themselves.
“I really love the cats and the people there, because the cats were so nice, supportive, and loving to everybody, and then the people, they were super kind to everyone,” Brayden said.
After returning to Purr & Play with his family, Brayden and his family found their perfect match in another cat, Sheena, and welcomed her into their home.
When asked why his family decided to adopt, Brayden shared, “The cats are super nice, and we wanted to give them a home and a second chance. That’s why I really love Purr & Play.”
The visit gave students a firsthand look at the importance of animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the many ways they can make a difference in their community. For Brayden and his family, the experience led to something even more special: a new family member and a second chance for Sheena.
Are you looking for this kind of connection? DAS welcomes adopters, donors, fosters, and volunteers to get involved!
About Domestic Animal Services
Collier County Domestic Animal Services is the county’s public animal shelter, providing care for lost and homeless animals, adoption services, community outreach, and enforcement of animal-related ordinances. The shelter takes in thousands of animals each year and works to support public safety, responsible pet ownership and lifesaving outcomes.
Media Contact:
Victoria Juran
Marketing and Outreach Coordinator, Domestic Animal Services
(239) 877-8179