Animal Magic In The Classroom

For thousands of years children have grown up in close proximity to animals. Even today the ability to husband and care for animals is second nature to millions of children in developing countries. When the RSPCA said in May, that live animals should not be kept in UK schools, many observers felt the charity had gone too far. Now the Pet Health Council, (PHC) has issued a panegyric on pets in the classroom.

The RSPCA expressed concerns that school pets are harmed by poor living conditions and the constant attention of excited pupils. It said that animal welfare could be taught in schools using soft cuddly toys rather than live animals.

PHC responds saying there is nothing better than the real thing. Contact with a live animal, says the Council, rather than the use of a soft toy, results in children being more attentive and responsive to the teacher in the presence of the animal.

The PHC report goes on:

"Pets can also work miracles for children with special learning needs. For instance, studies have shown that sustained contact with animals in a structured learning programme can increase focused attention in children with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) as effectively as such medications like Ritalin.

"Therapy dogs are now often used in programmes where children read to the dog. The dogs appear to listen intently, and unlike humans, do not interrupt or correct the child. Results have shown that the children's reading ability can improve greatly as their confidence grows."

According to John Foster, Chairman, PHC:

"Children are universally naturally interested in animals. Parents and teachers can harness this interest to teach children important life skills and lessons. The needs of people and animals are broadly similar. Teaching animal care gives teachers and parents unparalleled opportunity to introduce many important concepts such as good nutrition, health and hygiene routines, a responsible outlook in life and preventative health care."

Elizabeth Ormerod MRCVS, PHC member, highlighted that animal welfare should be a primary consideration at all times:

"Any involvement of animals in schools must promote good practice in animal care and welfare. Children can share the tasks of caring for the pet, but an adult needs to take overall responsibility for the pet's welfare. Veterinary surgeons should also be involved in the selection, assessment, and care of the pets."