Be Kind to Animals Week began in 1915
PET OHANA
Hawaiian Humane Society
Question: What is the history of Be Kind to Animals Week?
Answer: Be Kind to Animals Week was instituted in 1915. It was the first nationwide education and outreach effort by a national humane movement, born out of animal protection agencies that wanted to change people's ideas about the way animals should be treated. The week celebrates the bond between humans and animals.
Q: What are some family project suggestions to honor the week?
A: Be a good pet owner. Spend extra time with your pet. Research its health-care needs and social and physical requirements.
Help elderly neighbors with their animal companions. Take a neighbor's dog for a walk or assist with the animal's veterinarian visits.
Select an issue, such as pet overpopulation, and design an educational exhibit for the library in your neighborhood. Design and produce a pet-care book to include with the display.
Discuss the benefits of adopting a shelter pet. Make a contribution. In addition to cats and dogs, birds, mice, rabbits, turtles and fish can be found at your local shelter.
Volunteer as a family at your local shelter. Add to the shelter's pleasant environment; offer to help decorate for a special holiday or animal awareness issue.
Q: What humane education books are recommended for children?
A: The Henry Bergh Children's Book Award list provides recommended reading for children and young adults. Established to honor books that promote the humane ethic of compassion and respect for all living things, the award was named after the man who founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in 1866.
A few books from the list are "'Lets Get a Pup!' said Kate," by Bob Graham (preschool through third grade), and "Black Beauty," by Anna Sewell (grades nine through 12). Parents might want to read "Above All, Be Kind: Raising a Humane Child in Challenging Times," by Zoe Weil.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail,
hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu, HI 96826.