In the past month, Saga Humane Society has been hosting several Humane Education presentations at the various primary schools on the island. The presentation aims to educate the children on the proper way to care for pets and humanely deal with animals. On Tuesday, November 25th Island Academy’s eager lower division students listened carefully and learned how to make the island a pet friendly place.
The presentation is led by Saga volunteers Sandie Betz-Eisenberg and Cynthia Kyles, with the help of service dog, Sheila. The fun filled presentation taught the children valuable information on pet care, and they not only learned of the importance of being a good pet owner, but also how to reduce animal abuse in the island. “Animals feel just like humans. If you kick or punch them, they hurt like any person would. It is up to all of us to stop animal abuse. When we see a person abusing an animal, we should get an adult to stop them and then report the abuser to Saga. It only takes one person to stand up to animal abuse, to start a movement,” said Kylies.
The children also learned the daily essentials needed for the healthy growth and development of cats and dogs. Every day, pets need food, clean water, medicine, shelter and most importantly love. The students even listed several other things that they believe is needed by pets, like a bath and toys to play with. The importance of spaying and neutering cats and dogs was emphasized to the attentive audience.
One of the most important topic discussed in the presentation was what shouldn’t be fed to dogs and cats. “There are several things that dogs shouldn’t eat, as it can impair their health. Many people do not know of these items and allow their dogs/cats to eat it and they get sick. For example any sort of sugary treat is bad for a dog/cat’s health. Dogs and cats are naturally lactose-intolerance so they should not be given any form of dairy product at all,” said Kyles. Other items that should not be given to dogs and cats include chocolate, onions, macadamia nuts, grapes, and chicken bones. The students were amazed at the list of items that can harm their pets’ health.
At the end of the 40 minute presentation, the children were asked questions on the topics discussed. Each child had the opportunity to answer a question and earn a prize. “Humane education and learning to be kind is the key to being a good pet owner and a great neighbor. It is our mission to promote kindness and prevent cruelty, and sharing our program with the kids is the first step toward making that happen,” said Betz-Eisenberg.
Saga will be hosting the Humane Education Presentation next at San Pedro Roman Catholic Primary School.
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