On Friday, May 20, 2022, the West End Elementary 4th graders gathered in the school Media Center to celebrate becoming Animal Advocates after participating in the Pet Responsibility Program.
A review of the “I Can” statements from each lesson was further enjoyed by students winning “I Can” prizes by explaining each of the statements.
The PRC mascot, Speuter, was introduced to the students and read a poem that highlighted responsibility for our pets.
The guest speaker was Seven Lakes Kennel owner and dog trainer, Neil Copeland. He worked with therapy dog Elmer to demonstrate easy lessons to train our dogs. Then he answered many questions from curious students about his experience and work with animals.
Star Artist awards were given to students Reilly S., Addison R., Carter D., Sawyer D. and Maddox P. for creative illustrations of pet care on “clinic bags”. The decorated paper bags were donated to the Sandhills Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic in Vass, for dispensing medications to pet owners to give to their pets after their surgeries.
Several students were announced as winners of the Speuter Story Contest, successfully describing the importance of getting our pets “fixed” to control Pet Overpopulation. The students won a free spay/neuter for their pets or could donate their award to another person. Winners were Noah C. for his cat Rosie, Carter D., Shelby B., Lucille C. for her dog Peggy, Samuel G., Sawyer D., Reilly Smith, and Jacob W. With another student’s donation, Noah’s dog who’d just had 10 puppies will be able to be spayed soon.
The Final Chapter of A Tale of Two Pets was presented. Barney the cat is enjoying his home with Aberdeen fourth grade student, Mason. Snowball the dog is having a good life with Mason’s friend, Madison. All the Snowflakes have found loving homes.
The Promise poster was read, with students agreeing to the statements by saying “I Promise”. It was circulated among the classrooms for signing by the 4th graders and will be displayed in the school. Bookmarks and Pawsome wristbands were distributed in the classrooms.
Congratulations to the West End 4th graders for speaking up for “those who have no voice”. They will be wonderful Animal Advocates!!
