| Many teachers use pets in their classrooms to
good effect in reaching students, teaching responsibility, learning
about biology and many more vital life lessons. But downsides
exist, too, such as what to do with animals in summer, what
happens if they die or if a room is vandalized, and how to handle
care, feeding and expenses, to name a few. In addition, some
students may be allergic to the animal. With that in mind, we
found the best resources to aid a teacher or parent who might
be interested in such a purchase.
One thing to remember is the feelings of the pet in this
matter. It is probably going to be handled a great deal, may
be left in a cold room over the weekend, and may even be treated
poorly. Thus it's vital not to rush into this decision.
Alternatives
to Pets in the Classroom
From the ASPCA
Animal
Care for Classroom Pets
Before deciding, you need to consider all aspects of this
very comprehensive guide to selecting and caring for animals.
Animals
in the Classroom: Lessons in Disrespect
A strong argument against classroom animals from People for
the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Be
Kind to Animals Week
Lessons and ideas from the American Humane Society
Caring for Animals in the Classroom
Position pages from major teaching organizations -- learn what the rules are for pets in the classroom
The
Care of Live Animals in the Classroom
Choosing
a Classroom Pet
Try this making-a-poster research lesson about selecting a
pet (with rubrics).
Choosing
the Right Classroom Pet
Good basic guide from Canada
Classroom
Animals and Pets
Perhaps the best site
Living Things in the Classroom
Ideas for subject integration
Pets
in the Classroom
General overview of pros and cons
Pets
and Other Fishy Books
A book as a pet
Which
Classroom Pet is Right for My Class?
Great pro and con chart
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