PetPEP - the Pets and People Education Program
Madonna Taylor
Abstract
Education is a key factor in addressing critical issues relating to companion pets and animals that exist in the community.
PetPEP (Pet and People Education Program) author, Dr Di Evans, stated that the prime motivation for the development of PetPEP was "... I saw so many animals being brought in that were in a terrible state - obviously neglected. Yet when I questioned the owner, it wasn't because they didn't love their pets. It was just that they didn't know any better". PetPEP - is a unique primary school curriculum program designed specifically to improve the understanding and welfare of the animals with which we live; improve responsible pet ownership and the harmonious integration of pets into the community.
It was apparent to Dr Evans that primary school children would be the most receptive to the message about responsible pet ownership. The idea was and still is about providing children with the knowledge and skills, which will enable them, to make informed and discerning choices about their pets and animals in adulthood. The program is designed to be fun and educational and enables links to be made between schools and the veterinary profession as a point of reference for expert advice and assistance. It lends itself beautifully to include input from the broader community including, animal control officers and animal management groups. In 1998, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) reviewed the implementation of the PetPEP Program in Australia. This review highlighted the necessity for the AVA to seek strategic partnerships for the overall promotion of the program. The Australian Veterinary Association, 156 veterinary practitioners, Fort Dodge, Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Petcare Information Advisory Service (PIAS) have contributed to the further development and promotion of PetPEP.
About the author
Madonna Taylor
National Pet PEP Coordinator
AVA (QLD)
PO Box 34 Indooroopilly Qld 4068
Ph. 07 3378 7988 Fx. 07 3378 1691
Email. petpep@ava.com.au
Madonna's professional background is as a Physical Education teacher. She has worked in both high schools and primary schools in the State Education Department and Catholic Education. For almost 4 years Madonna has coordinated Pet PEP part time for the AVA (Qld Division). In April 1999 she was appointed National Pet PEP Co-Coordinator. The role has provided the opportunity of seeing the rewards gained by working in community on this project. The children are learning some valuable lessons and the vets are actively participating in shaping the attitudes of the next generation of pet and animal owners.
Back to Urban Animal Management Conference Index
Back to Petnet