Pets were only allowed in schools when some kid brought their pet to show and tell, but now classrooms are having classroom pets! I have heard of teachers having classroom pets such as guinea pigs, rabbits, frogs, geckos or fish. Teachers have even had animals like ducklings or butterflies in order to show students their how to care and tend to an animal that is growing. Some teachers have introduced animals into the classroom to help students with anxiety and boost moods such as having a dog in the classroom.

I was volunteering in a Grade 1 classroom in Victoria and the teacher brought her dog into her classroom. She told me her students took a real liking to her dog and sought out the dog when students needed some quiet time to sit and pet the dog. Of the students in the classroom who had behavioral needs, they bonded well with the dog and became calmer in the dogs presence. The dog was never a distraction to the students but became a part of the classroom community. Thus I have seen the benefits of having a class pet.

It will be interesting if this trend increases due to the positive impacts it has on students. When one takes care of an animal it teaches responsibility, nurturing and empathy to the person. Thus these skills are important to nurture in children as it influences their personality and well being.

There are tons of YouTube videos to check out if you are considering in getting a class pet. Such as: what pet to get, how to take care of various pets in the classroom, how therapy dogs benefit the class and all! ALSO if you want to start off small and thinking a pet is too much for a class. Why not get a classroom plant?

Remember there are things to consider when getting a classroom pet: where is the pet from ? Do not leave the pet alone in the school, especially if it is a mammal. Consider the safety of the animal while in the classroom. and allergies and other student health risks.

Resources:

Benefits of Classroom Animals

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=classroom+pets