Kid Power! Love on a Leash Pet Therapy
Kid Power! Kids can make a difference! Every Thursday on Ink Splot 26, we'll show you a new idea for how YOU can make the world a better place.
Hello there! A few weeks ago we talked about Scholastic News Kid Reporter, Ashlyn, who donated her hair to Locks of Love. This week, another Scholastic News Kid Reporter volunteered his time to make the world a better place, and this community service involves a dog!
Damien has a three-and-a-half-year-old basset hound named Sammy. He knew that some seniors in the nursing home in his town rarely received visitors, so he brought Sammy to cheer them up. Sammy turned the place into a happy environment. People were waving and clapping, and playing with Sammy. Not only did Damien and Sammy make a difference at the home, but they also made new friends. Read more about Damien's experience.
There are plenty of places that can use a few smiles. If you have a well-behaved animal, you can share him or her like Damien did.
Here's how:
- You will need an adult to come with you, so make sure you have your guardian's permission. Another option is to ask your teacher, scout troop, or church group to set up a field-trip.
- Check with your vet to make sure your pet has all the required vaccinations.
- Visit or call your local home for seniors and let them know you're interested in volunteering. You might have to fill out an application. Don't get discouraged if they say no. Sometimes they need to go through a very particular process, or they might just be too busy.
- Set up a date for your visit. Make sure you mark it down somewhere important; you don't want to forget!
- Bring your animal and your smiles!
Could your beloved dog or cat be a therapy pet? If we incorporate small acts of kindness into our everyday lives to let other people know they are appreciated, we can definitely make a change in the world! It is simple and it just has to come from the heart. Let us know what you think in the Comments.
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Wow! That is so kind and generous for someone to do that. I might try it with my dog Isabella. I just think it's wonderful to bring the elderly such joy!
Comment #1 | Posted by: Olivia on November 17, 2011 at 03:02 PM
That is so kind and generous for someone to use their pet, to bring joy to the elderly! I want to try this with my dog Isabella. THanks for sharing!
Comment #2 | Posted by: Olivia on November 17, 2011 at 05:41 PM
the best thing in the wrold
Comment #3 | Posted by: mia on November 18, 2011 at 12:04 PM
this is great this is best thing
hahahahahha
Comment #4 | Posted by: mia on November 18, 2011 at 12:06 PM
hi
Comment #5 | Posted by: Britteny on November 18, 2011 at 02:04 PM
Wow! That is so kind and generous for someone to do that.i do it a lot and its so fun!!!
Comment #6 | Posted by: birdaqua337 on November 18, 2011 at 05:51 PM
I do that with my dog!
(well my cousin's dog)
All the elderly at the home just love him and they bend over to pet him.
It makes me SO happy to see how much happiness he brings them!
Comment #7 | Posted by: fairygale4 on November 19, 2011 at 02:11 PM
this is pretty cool and i really want to take part in it
Comment #8 | Posted by: bandsinging2 on November 21, 2011 at 07:05 AM
That book rocks
Comment #9 | Posted by: Maggie on November 21, 2011 at 08:10 AM
PEACE ON THE WORLD
Comment #10 | Posted by: BLOODHOUND on November 23, 2011 at 03:42 PM
hi maggie
Comment #11 | Posted by: BLOODHOUND on November 23, 2011 at 03:45 PM
There's no doubt that dogs can cheer up people. Good job Sammie for bringing up the light and good mood.
Cheers,
Natalie
Comment #12 | Posted by: Natalie on January 19, 2012 at 06:08 PM