Spring break will be here before you know it and summer is right around the corner. If your plans include travel and Fido isn’t invited, here are a few things to consider when deciding where and who will care for your four-legged family member while you’re away. boarding your pet
Before Boarding Your Pet, Plan to Ask:
Is my pooch up to date on vaccinations?
Ensure vaccinations are required for other animals boarded in the same facility.
Can I take a tour?
Visiting the facility and meeting staff members who will be caring for your dog can help you determine if it’s the right fit. Plus, provides peace of mind while you’re away.
Are the staff and facility certified?
If your dog is injured, know who will provide treatment. Also, find out if your pet will need to be transported to another location for care.
What will my dog do all day?
Some places keep dogs kenneled most of the day. Alternatively, others provide an open area for dogs to play and socialize with other pet guests.
Where will my dog sleep?
Just like time spent during the day, some facilities require pets each sleep in a separated area. Others offer a slumber party environment.
Can I bring my own dog food?
Let the facility know if your dog has a special diet or feeding schedule.
Whether you use these as a starting point or have your own questions, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable knowing you’ll return to a pet that is tired but happy. boarding your pet
We know how important your furry friends are. That’s why California Casualty offers pet health insurance from Pets Best, rated in the top tier of pet insurance companies. You can get up to 90 percent reimbursement for X-rays, lab tests, surgeries, even cancer treatment with a Pets Best policy. Best yet, you’ll save five percent (in most states) if you purchase through California Casualty.
We only get limited time with our pets. Make the most of it! Contact our Agency Services team at 1.877.652.2638 or email agencyservices@calcas.com.
If your pet travels with you, don’t forgetCalifornia Casualty automatically includes free Pet Injury Coverage as part of your auto insurance policy.
Get a free quote today and discover why educators, firefighters, police officers and nurses trust California Casualty for their auto and home insurance needs. www.calcas.com
Our Education Blogger is a public school teacher with over a decade of experience. She’s an active NEA member and enjoys writing about her experiences in the classroom.
Thinking about getting a pet for your classroom? You might be surprised how beneficial having a classroom pet can be! But before you run out to buy the perfect classroom pet, there a few things to think about.
Why Should I Have A Classroom Pet?
There are many benefits to having a classroom pet! According to Pets in the Classroom, pets provide learning opportunities, enrich the classroom experience, improve attendance, teach responsibility, aid in immune system performance, boost student morale, encourage nurturing behavior, build self-esteem, and strengthen social skills. Learn more at petsintheclassroom.org.
Do Your Research
Find out what kind of care the animal requires, what type of enclosure is preferred, feeding requirements, and other needs. Have the animal examined at your local veterinarian office (many vets will conduct an exam on classroom pets free of charge, just call to ask!). Also, research any diseases the animal may transfer to humans.
Keep Parents Informed
Be sure the parents of students in your classroom are aware you have a classroom pet. Some students may have pet allergies and must be seated away from the pet enclosure. It may also be wise to send home literature detailing the benefits of having a pet in the classroom.
Have A Plan For When School Isn’t In Session
Make plans for weekends, holiday breaks, and summer break. Where will the pet go? Who will care for it? Will students take turns taking it home on weekends? What items will need to be sent home with students? You might consider using an online sign-up system like SignUp.com to make these arrangements. It is also a good idea to send home care instructions with students who are taking the animal home.
Here are some of the best classroom pets, according to PetMD.com:
Bearded Dragon – gentle, can be held occasionally
Guinea Pigs – minimal care, easily handled, social
Rabbits – affectionate, social, some can be skittish and become defensive
Rats – affectionate, intelligent, minimal care
Fish – visually intriguing, stress and anxiety reliever
You Can Apply For A Grant That Will Help Fund Your Classroom Pet
Petsintheclassroom.org is an educational grant program that provides financial support to teachers to purchase and maintain small animals in the classroom. The program was established by the Pet Care Trust to provide children with an opportunity to interact with pets—an experience that can help to shape their lives for years to come. (Pre-K through 9th grade)
**Please remember, just like a family pet, an animal is a lifelong commitment. Consider adopting rather than purchasing an animal from a pet store. As the primary classroom educator, you are considered the animal’s guardian and caregiver and are responsible for the well-being of the animal, even when you are not in the animal’s presence.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
