First and foremost, the children decided that we needed a dog hospital which was set up in our Science Center and added to regularly. It is a very busy place most days!! Of course, signage is a must, and it is complete with pictures of all sorts of ailments so you can get an idea what is wrong with your dog while you wait to see the vet.
Each child then 'adopted' a dog to take care of through the course of our study. They gave them collars and name tags so if they go missing, they can be returned. We write about our dogs each week. And, our special visitors loved meeting them!
We were very fortunate to have four very special guests visit us and teach us important lessons about dogs. Elaine is a veterinarian and she explained to us about the many reasons a dog needs to see the vet and how she takes care of them when they come to see her. We were particularly curious about the dog wheelchair, which allows a disabled dog to be mobile.
Daniela is a dog trainer and she brought in her wonderful dog, Roo. Roo was born with three legs and a "chicken wing" as Daniela called it. She helped us understand all the important ways to treat a dog and how to behave in a safe way around dogs. We loved giving Roo treats, petting him and walking him around the room. Daniela gave each child a thoughtful booklet to remind them how to be safe around dogs.
Next, Gus' mom, Megan, brought in their big dog, Shady. Shady is a reading therapy dog and was the most gentle dog that I have ever encountered! Megan explained that having a dog to read to helps children and adults relax, feel good about themselves, and makes them feel loved. Shady has such an important job! The children just loved him!!
Yesterday, Gus' Abuela Clara visited our class. Clara is a veterinarian ophthalmologist. She helped us understand that a dog's body is very similar to our own. We have bones, muscles and organs that all work in the same way. She brought in and left us with beautiful posters of a dog's skeletal system, organs and muscles. These are a wonderful addition to the hospital!
Devin has been doing many lessons focused on our study. One centered on service dogs and another on veterinary care. She has read fiction and nonfiction books which led into a variety of activities, making puppets, dog wellness pictures, adding and even designing a dog made with shapes.
It has been fun to watch and hear the children taking care of their dogs in the hospital, making them beds or rooms, taking them for walks on their leashes and just loving to spend time with them.
On Tuesday, we are off to PetSmart to learn about the supplies that you need as a dog owner, what grooming is all about and how to be a caring and responsible dog owner. We are very excited!
Enjoy our pictures!
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