Learning Outcomes

Children will investigate responsible pet ownship

Introduction

Write “Needs” and “Wants” on the board and discuss the difference with the class. Emphasise how a need is something we must have to survive. Tell the children that today you will discuss the needs of pets you may have at home.

Development

Place the pictures of five animals on the board: Dog, Cat, Rabbit, Hamster and a Bird. Begin by discussing that all animals have basic needs just like they do. Elicit answers from the class such as food, water and a place to sleep. Record the different food types and shelters under each animal’s picture.

Divide the class into five groups and assign each group one of the animals already discussed. Give each group a sheet to record the individual needs that the animals might have e.g. dogs need to be walked for exercise, hamsters can have a wheel, cats need to maintain their claws.

After 4 minutes, give some time for responses in front of the class. After the sharing time, discuss with the class how animals also have emotional needs like we do. This means that animals need company and love shown to them as well.

Allow the class time to discuss in pairs how to meet the emotional needs of a pet e.g. talk to them, pet them in gentle way, washing them. Allow time for the pairs to share their ideas

Get the class to return to their original groups and design a poster together to inform others about how to care for their selected pet in the right way.

Plenary

Watch Benefits of Pet Ownership video