Moms, I need your help!

[bestoutwest]

Some of you may know that I'm a veterinarian. I have been asked by one of my clients to give a presentation to a couple of groups of kids participating in a YMCA summer camp in June. Since I don't have children, I was just hoping you could give me some suggestions of important things you feel I should make the kids aware of when it comes to pets. The kids will range in age from kindergarten to 6th grade. I am planning on addressing the "safety" issues of how to approach dogs and cats and basic interaction, but would appreciate any other suggestions you would have! Thanks!!

 

[amyg]

What happens if the kid approaches an animal and the animal doesn't want them to approach? I've seen kids approach correctly but the animals still don't really want anything to do with them...

Sheesh. I should have said "ME". I was talking about me as a kid! And I've seen all kinds of kids chasing around animals, trying to get the animal to "like" them when the animal couldn't care less.

Maybe this is the basic interaction you're talking about? And anyway, I'm not a mom so I shouldn't even be in here... :7

 

[40something]

I think the most important thing kids need to be taught about pets is indeed, safety. They need to understand why they shouldn't just walk up to a strange dog and expect a happy reception.

The problem these days is when you go to outdoor youth sports, you see so many people bringing their dogs, their ferrets, with them. And then you'll hear a pet owner say to a young child, "Don't pet my dog because he might bite."

Then why is the dog at the event in the first place? The world is full of really stupid pet owner's.

We have one gal in particular who shows up to all sorts of outdoor sports with her four greyhounds. I assume she does this for the attention but you can only imagine how frustrating it is for parents to have to keep their kids away from those dogs.

 

[buffettgirl]

We had someone from the SPCA do a presentation for a Bible school program one year. She talked about how a pet is for life and how important neutering your pets is. She also brought a cat of her own to share, which the kids thought was the best part. Do you have an animal who is good with children? Of course, I guess you'd have to have bringing a live animal approved first.

 

[Faithnveggies]

Since this is a Cathe forum...how about the importance of exercise and good nutrition and proper weight for dogs? Choosing a proper pet and understanding its needs. How much work it is to clean cages, etc. Don't buy exotic pets and let them loose when you become bored with them. Breeding any animal when there are so many in shelters. Just a few thoughts.

 

[hokypoky]

How about not approaching/taking away a pet's food (dogs in particular)? Some are very aggressive that it may surprise a child, but they should understand why.

Also, how a pet has unconditional love and just wants to please you...it is our responsibility to be thankful for that love and to care for and love our animals in return. Playing ball or scratching a belly goes a long way in showing an animal you love it.

 

[scm]

Definitely how to approach an animal is important, but I also think children need to also learn the importance for their care ~ food, clean water, bedding and even proper toys.
One other thing is that not all "people" food is good for dogs (not sure about cats) such as grapes and raisins.
Susan C.M.