Young animal lovers will soon have the chance to make a real difference to the lives of animals in need with the launch of RSPCA WA’s Junior Rescue Officer program this month.
The program aims to encourage and engage young children in animal welfare and we at Have a Go News thought this is a great opportunity to encourage grandchildren to get involved with animal welfare.
Junior Rescue Officers will learn how best to care for their own animals, as well as practical ways to support RSPCA WA’s team of Inspectors and Carers.
The launch of the program will coincide with the biggest day out on the doggy calendar – Million Paws Walk on Sunday 19 May. Children wishing to sign up as the very first Junior Rescue Officers can do so at the Community Outreach stall, located inside RSPCA Land.
The Junior Rescue Officer program is open to children of any age, but may appeal most to those aged 5-12.
Children who sign up to the program at Million Paws Walk will receive their Junior Rescue Officer pack, including an official ID, Animania magazine, RSPCA bear and an Official Paw Points handbook. They will also go into the draw to win a behind-the-scenes tour of RSPCA WA’s Animal Care Centre in Malaga, where they’ll get to meet an Inspector!
As an extra bonus, the first five children to sign up to the program will receive a special gift.
RSPCA WA Community Outreach Inspector Nat Foster said It’s never too early to start engaging with children on how to look after animals and respect them as living creatures, which is why we’re so excited to launch the Junior Rescue Officer program.
“We know that educating children at an early age can make a difference to the welfare of animals. Teaching compassion for animals teaches empathy for all living beings,” she said.
Signing up to the program costs $25 and requires children to commit to complete different tasks in order to gain “paw points”. These are fun and practical activities that children complete throughout the year to help animals in their homes, in their neighbourhoods, or animals currently in shelter environments waiting for their new families.
Once all “paw points” are complete and signed off by a parent or guardian, children can bring the booklet into RSPCA WA in Malaga to get it all signed off by the RSPCA.
“This new program will show children ways to harness their unique creative thinking and energy for the practical benefit of the animals in their lives, as well as animals in need.
“Last financial year, RSPCA WA’s dedicated team of Inspectors investigated over 6000 reports of animal welfare concerns.
“We love our job and we want to share our rescue stories, experience and knowledge about caring for animals with all our Junior Rescue Officers to inspire them to make a difference,” said Ms Foster.
Children who are unable to visit the Community Outreach stall at Million Paws Walk can sign up and find out more about the new Junior Rescue Officer program at www.rspcawa.asn.au/junior-rescue-officer
