• Emphasizes character education by promoting respect and empathy toward people, animals and the environment;
• Assists children in developing compassion, a sense of justice and a respect for the value of all living creatures;
• Provides the knowledge and understanding necessary for children to resolve conflict situations and make responsible choices;
• Fosters a sense of responsibility on the part of children to make choices and act upon their personal beliefs.
• Provides knowledge on how to properly care for a pet, including food, shelter and medical necessities.
• How to properly greet another person's pet or a strange animal on the street.

To book the Humane Society of St. Lucie County for an education session, contact Paula O'Neal, volunteer coordinator at volunteers@hsslc.org or 772-461-0687 ext. 224.

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Article by HSSLC Supporter, Stanley Popovich

THE ADVANTAGES OF ADOPTING A DOG OR CAT

There are many advantages to adopting a dog or cat. Adopting a pet can be a great way to reduce our every day stresses and anxieties. In addition, there are many other reasons why adopting a dog or cat can be important in your life.

For instance, pets can help us to relax and help us to focus on the good things in our lives. This can be very helpful when we are overwhelmed by the stresses and anxieties of our lives. Playing with our pets can help reduce our fears and anxieties in any situation.

Pets can get our minds off of our problems. A person could do an activity with their pet or other animals that will give them a fresh perspective on things. Spending time with animals will get your mind off of the problem and give you the energy to do other things. Most importantly, playing with animals will give you the self-confidence that you can cope and that you can get through a stressful day.

Spending time with a pet can reduce loneliness and can be a great source of companionship. A pet can help us to feel better. Also many people talk to their pets and this can help us to get their problems out in the open. Animals can be of good company to all of us and can prevent the fear of being alone during our troubles.

Taking care of dog or cat can be a great way to increase our happiness and self-confidence. There are many animals out there who could benefit from your time and talents. Doing something that will help your pet or other animals can give you a source of pride and accomplishment.

Pets are 100 percent faithful and will be by your side through the good and bad times. Everybody deals with anxieties, stresses and other life problems, and it is during those times when you need someone by your side to talk too. People in our lives come and go, but your pet will never leave you regardless how bad your problems may be.

There are also many different breeds of dogs and cats we can choose from which can accommodate our life styles. If you want a certain type of pet that will suite your life style, all you have to do is talk to a pet expert or a veterinarian. These people will work with you to determine what type of dog to get that will fit in with your household.

By adopting a pet, you will be saving a life; a life of an animal that could very well become your best friend. A pet will love you unconditionally during his or her lifetime. Don’t let a few obstacles prevent you from gaining a faithful companion in your life. Adopting a pet can be beneficial to your health and be one of the best things that you can do in your life.

BIOGRAPHY:

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non Resistant Methods" - an easy to read book that presents a general overview of techniques that are effective in managing persistent fears and anxieties. For additional information go to: http://www.managingfear.com/