Lori Biever-Launder

[gkp1031]

Just curious if you do any school programs for the shelter you volunteer at? I'm thinking of doing a program with first or second graders and was wondering if you had any advice? I have some program info from the Humane Society and a couple other organizations. Looking for tips as to what would hold their interest, be fun and educational at the same time. Do you think that's a good age, or should I go older? I don't think I want to go any older than 7th graders.

Thanks

[Lori Biever-Launder]

Our shelter is TINY, so they don't have much in the way of programs. HOWEVER, I approached the local schools and now do dog safety presentations for the local elementary schools (both public and private). I started out not charging for them, but the coordinator insisted she pay me something. I get a few bucks each time I go (pays for gas, dog treats, etc.) as well as a bit of my time.

My dog has her CGC (Canine Good Citizen) certificate has been trained in advanced obedience. I would recommend that ANY dog be very well socialized before beginning this sort of "work". Kids often hug Gypsy, pull her tail and ears, lie on her and crowd around her en masse. I have had so many kids around her that I couldn't see her!

Your dog needs to be tireless! Gypsy spent four HOURS doing a "meet and greet" in October for a family program. She was met by over TWO HUNDRED kids in this time! By the time we were done, I was exhausted, but she was still rarin' to go!

I have done classes for kids as young as five up to fifth graders as well as mixed groups. I gear the classes differently depending on the ages I am dealing with. I always talk about how there's no such thing as a free puppy (dog is free, supplies, shots, food, crate, leash, etc. is NOT). I also talk about spaying and neutering and why buying a puppy or a kitten from a pet store is an absolute NO NO. The number one reason I am able to get into the school with my "assault dog" (she is an American Staffordshire Terrier, one of the bull breeds that gets so much bad media hype these days) is I stress that I teach dog SAFETY. If I can keep one kid from being bitten, then I feel that these classes haven't been in vain.

Hopefully, this will give you some ideas. Feel free to ask more questions; I love to talk about these classes!