Why Encourage Humane Education for Children?

Today’s children are tomorrow’s pet guardians, and North Shore Animal League America wants to ensure that lessons of responsibility and proper care for pets are instilled early and often. The original 3 R’s were Reading, Writing and Arithmetic then we learned to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Here at North Shore Animal League America, we practice and teach our own 3 R’s...Respect, Responsibility, and Recognition for animals.

Respect means treating an animal with the same physical and emotional consideration that you would give to another human being – to be mindful that pets have feelings too.

Responsibility is acknowledging the fact that owning a pet is a commitment of time, money and patience for the lifetime of your companion. Before adopting, you must be prepared for the task you are about to take on. Your pet will rely on you to provide the proper food, water, activity, shelter, love and medical attention required to live a happy and comfortable life.

Recognition means spreading the love and appreciation that we have for all animals here at the League to people around the world. Pets are precious gifts that can provide a lifetime of happiness, companionship and love to any family willing to open their hearts and accept the responsibility of pet ownership. The reward is found in all of the unconditional love a pet has to give.

Engaging children now and teaching them the importance of Respect, Responsibility and Recognition for animals will ensure a healthier future for pets. The hope is that these same children will grow up to be kind, compassionate adults who respect other people and other living creatures.

Support the Humane Education Program

Get involved! Become a Humane Education Volunteer

Contact North Shore Animal League America for more information about our Humane Education Program