As a society, we have made a lot of progress over the past several years with new laws in specific cities that prohibit the sale of some companion animals. However, we still have a long way to go on preventing any animals from being bred in inhumane conditions and on reducing animal homelessness. As humane educators, we can teach young people about these issues so that they can make a conscious decision about where they go to bring an animal into their life. In our featured lesson, How Much Is that Doggie in the Window?, studentsareasked to identify the differences between a dog and an object. This leads to a discussion in which students are encouraged to critically examine how they think and feel about the practice of selling a living being. Then, they compare and contrast listings of animals who are up for adoption to ads of animals who are being sold for profit. The activity helps students to understand the difference between the services provided by animal shelters and rescue organizations versus the motivation of pet stores and breeding operations.
National Bat Appreciation Day is coming soon, on April 17th. Consider teaching students about these amazing animals, the only mammals who can fly, eating approximately 1,200 mosquitos in an hour (except for fruit bats, who are herbivores). Take the opportunity to teach students about how incredible bats are, as well as other animals who have been stigmatized, to encourage care and kindness toward all living beings. You can pair your program with this fun Bat Mask activity.
Consider creating eco-journals with your students next month in honor of Earth Day (April 22). Screen our Making Eco-Journals video, which teaches about deforestation. Students will learn how an eco-journal helps to protect trees and animal habitats while they save money, get creative, and have fun. This is also a great project to do with junior volunteers or at the beginning of camp so that young people have a homemade notebook where they can write about their experience with your organization.
Trying to start or expand your humane education program? Looking for camp activities? Want a new book idea? Need a new lesson? Search no further. Check out ourNetwork Member Centerandperuse the "Bulletin Archive" to find a wide range of helpful humane education resources. When you visit, you can also access the HEART Network member logo to display on your email signature or website.
Collaborate with Network Members
The HEART Network private group provides an opportunity for you and other Network members to ask questions, start discussions, share resources, collaborate, access additional humane education tools, and more.
Jointhegrouptoday by following thisstep-by-step instruction guideexplaining how to join through Maddie's Pet Forum on the Maddie's Fund website.
Spread the Word!
Let your friends and colleagues know that it is free to join the HEART Network, and that signing up takes less than five minutes on our Network registration page.
