Passion for pets

With an objective to create a healthy respect for animals and nature, a school education program, 'Young Angels', was recently organised at Sadhu Waswani School. Jointly organised by Blue Cross of Hyderabad and Pedigree, the idea behind such an initiative is to strengthen the human animal bond and empower children to discover the joy of the animal world. Under the Young Angels programme, awareness sessions on animal welfare are conducted in schools, to create passion for pets and drive responsible pet ownership amongst children and explain the joy of adopting Indian homeless animals.  Dr Kathleen S Engler, DVM, diplomate ABVP (canine/feline), medical director - SW WA/OR Market, Banfield Pet Hospital, USA, said, “Children are more friendlier and attached with pets and animals. Through this program, we demonstrate to young students the diverse role that animals play in our day-to-day lives --- from being our companions, supporting to helping us and bringing a sense of wonder in our lives. We try to imbibe in the participating children a sense of responsible pet ownership and acknowledge the fact that without dogs, the world would be a very different place all together.”  To which Amala Akkineni, who is known for her love for animals and was present at the event, added, “Compassion and respect for animals is a precious human trait. With the world growing closer through technology, as people it is imperative that we preserve our ethics. Degeneration of the human spirit in every walk of life is a danger we are witnessing around us. We made this programme to help children get over their fear and anxieties when interacting with animals and thereby develop a healthy, friendly feeling towards them.”