Animals play an important role in the lives of our children from the first stuffed animal they receive to their first pet, be it a goldfish, hamster, kitten or puppy. Building these strong relationships with pets are how children learn compassion, kindness and respect for both animals and people alike. Our humane education program shows the importance of animals and the power of compassion.

Since 1990, Actors and Others has presented a humane education program to thousands of students from pre-school to high school. Staff and volunteers conduct classes in both public and private schools to teach responsible pet guardianship and to motivate and instruct students to care for and protect all animals. Of course, a key component is explaining pet overpopulation and the importance of spay/neuter. A variety of methods are used, depending on the grade level. Lecture, videos and discussion, book reviews, role-playing, puppets, games and individual projects are utilized in order to involve each student in the learning process.

Several years ago our program received special approval by the Los Angeles Public Library system to allow us to teach humane education at various libraries throughout Los Angeles City and County. Each year our popular summer program “How to be Safe around Dogs and Responsible Pet Care” has grown by word of mouth and many classes have over 100 children and parents in attendance.

By showing children that animals need love, care and protection, we are setting a foundation for future generations to treat all living creatures with the dignity they deserve.