School Children Programs

Although the Animal Center is able to present any age-appropriate program requested, specially-designed programs are available for third through fifth grade students. These programs introduce young animal lovers to the idea of responsible pet ownership and the fundamentals of understanding the behaviors and needs of pets and other animals. Ultimately, our goal is to help children learn respect for all living beings.

Programs for Third through Fifth Graders (can be adapted for younger and older students):

• You and Your Pet: Responsible pet ownership is learned through a discussion of how guardians can best meet the needs of their pets.
• What is My Pet Telling Me?: Students learn to identify the subtle and often not so subtle messages our pets give us through their vocalizations, body posturing, and movements.
• The Cost of Having a Pet: This eye-opening program teaches children about the financial and emotional commitment of having a pet.
• Safety First: Dog bite prevention and safety around animals will be taught to young animal lovers with the use of the University of Tennessee’s RUFUS program and other tools.
• Good Pet/Not a Good Pet: This program discusses the needs of companion species and why it is so important that wild animals be permitted to stay right where they are in the wild!