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This article breaks down the current guidelines and regulations for keeping pets in educational settings. It covers everything from health department requirements to school district policies. Understanding these rules will help us make stronger arguments!

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Education Grants | Pets in the Classroom is an educational grant program to support public school teachers to have aquarium fish or small pets in the classroom

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How to Prepare for Getting a Class Pet | Education Grants

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When getting a classroom pet, proper planning, commitment, and responsible pet ownership are essential. Here are 5 steps to take when preparing for a class pet.

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Study Shows Pets Reduce Classroom Stress

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Study Shows Pets Reduce Classroom Stress

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Research from the Journal of Educational Psychology suggests that classroom pets can significantly reduce student anxiety and stress levels. The study found that students were more relaxed and focused when there was a class pet present. Great evidence for our pro arguments!

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Classroom animals are wonderful resources for teachers to make learning fun in all subjects!

Pets Bring so Many New Ways to Learn

Whether it's Math ("how much does a hamster weigh?") or Science, ("what does a snake eat?") Geography ("what part of the world do ferrets come from?") or Grammar ("what words would we use to describe a goldfish?") students will approach learning all these subjects with a new enthusiasm and interest. Other classes can even come visit your classroom pets and your students can create special presentations about the animals.

Pets Enrich the Classroom Experience

Even kids with no exposure to animals or nature in their home environment can see, feel, touch and make connections to the wide world of animals.

Observing and caring for an animal instills a sense of responsibility and respect for life.

A pet brings increased sensitivity and awareness of the feelings and needs of others-both animals and humans.

Kids learn that all living things need more than just food and water for survival.

Students will see directly how their behavior and actions affect others.

Studies show that the presence of animals tends to lessen tension in the classroom.

A Child's Health, Education and Welfare

Caring for pets in the classroom is one way of improving school attendance and teaching children about responsibility.

Health & Education

It's official. Studies show that children from families with pets are better equipped to fight off infection than kids from non-pet households, showing significantly higher levels of immune system performance. When school attendance records were compared side by side, researchers discovered that kids with pets averaged more days at school every year than their pet-free counterparts.

The study also showed that kids turn to their pets for emotional well-being, with 40% of children choosing pet companionship when feeling down. Kids were also found to seek out their pets when feeling tired, upset, scared or lonely, and 53% of respondents said they enjoy doing homework with pets nearby. "Being around animals is extremely good for children", says Dr. Harvey Markovitch, pediatrician and editor of The Archives of Disease in Childhood. "They're good for morale, and teach children about relationships and about the needs of another living being - learning to care for a pet helps them to learn how to care for people". Studies show caring for pets aids in improving school attendance and teaching children about discoveryhealth.com

Studies show caring for pets aids in improving school attendance and teaching children about responsibility.
Kids and Pets-A winning combination!
Pets and Emotional Growth

Taking care of a pet provides opportunities for learning; builds a child's self-esteem and develops strong human animal bonds.

Pets Encourage Nurturing

Nobody enjoys being treated roughly. Kids soon learn that if they want to be liked and trusted by the family cat, they'll need to treat her carefully and kindly. This sort of training benefits all kids, but is especially important to small boys who don't often get the chance in our society to practice nurturing skills as girls do.

Pets Build Self Esteem

Helping to take care of a pet gives a child a sense of pride and accomplishment, especially if the animal is able to return the affection. Shari Young Kuchenbecker, Ph.D., research psychologist at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, says, "The child who cares for a pet knows that what he does matters, and so he'll want to do more of it. The more successfully he feeds, walks, or emotionally bonds with the pet, the more confident he'll feel." In fact, studies conducted by the Waltham Centre have shown that children with pets have higher levels of self-esteem than those without pets.

Pets Teach Responsibility

Even a small child can begin to learn to care for the needs of another living being. Whether helping to empty a cup of dry kibble into the rabbit's bowl, or filling the hamster's water bottle, it's never too early to start teaching kids proper animal care. Of course, parents or teachers must monitor all pet care that the child carries out. Kids should be expected to fulfill their responsibilities, but when the inevitable slip-ups occur, we shouldn't make too much of a fuss; we should just point out that the pet was counting on him.

Pets Become Friends

Lots of animals such as cats, dogs and guinea pigs love human contact and can become a child's best buddy. Kids can even develop strong human animal bonds with non-responsive animals such as fish or turtles. These relationships help to strengthen a child's social skills, giving them the potential to do better in a school setting. (sesameworkshop.org)

There are many benefits to having classroom pets! Here are the benefits two teachers shared with us through our Pets in the Classroom Success Story Video Contest!

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Classroom Pets Stimulate Learning Classroom animals are wonderful resources for teachers to make learning fun in all subjects! Pets Bring so Many New Ways to Learn Whether it's Math ("how much does a hamster weigh?") or Science,

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Let's hear from the students themselves! This survey of middle school students reveals diverse opinions about classroom pets. Some students love the idea, while others express concerns. It's fascinating to see how different perspectives can all be valid!

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Education Grants | Pets in the Classroom is an educational grant program to support public school teachers to have aquarium fish or small pets in the classroom

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Teacher Survey Shows Pets Enhance Learning | Education Grant

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The Pets in the Classroom grant program shares the results of it’s annual teacher survey, which shows the incredible benefits classroom pets bring.

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This piece discusses how classroom pets can enhance learning across subjects - from writing creative stories about the class pet to learning about responsibility and biology. The data shows improved engagement and academic performance!

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Teachers have many unique ways to help students learn, from fun activities to quizzes and tests. Interactive learning is always an extremely valuable way to help kids understand new concepts. And beyond math and science, teachers are also working to teach kids important social skills and behaviors as well. They utilize unique activities and tactics to help teach students these important skills, preparing them for growing older and entering the real-world.

A classroom pet is a great way for teachers to enhance their classroom and improve student learning. It's important for current and aspiring teachers to understand the work that goes into having a classroom pet, as well as the many pros that come from it.

Classroom pets need to have their cage or area cleaned regularly and be given food and water daily. They will also need to be homed during the holidays, and it's extremely important that it doesn't become a distraction for kids. While there is some work that goes in to having a classroom pet, there are also many benefits for teachers and students alike.

Having pets inside the classroom can enhance the learning environment. A regular math lesson can turn into a unique learning opportunity when the problem focuses on how much food their classroom pet eats in a day or how much it weighs. Creative writing assignments that start with a prompt about the school pet can get interesting and exciting. Science lessons about different types of animals come to life with a school pet. Any subject can be transformed into something new and interesting with a class pet.

It's been shown that school pets can offer teachers new and unique ways to approach their lessons. They add another option for teachers to create interactive learning opportunities for kids. And overall, having an animal in a learning environment can help inspire and motivate students in their learning.

Beyond teaching students subjects like math and science, a class pet can help teach students responsibility. Class pets need to be taken care of, fed daily, given fresh water, cleaned up after, and more. Teachers can help students learn about nurturing and caring for something else. They can assign chores for students each day to do to help care for their class pet. Sometimes over holidays or weekends, students may be in charge of taking the pet home with them. This teaches them even more responsibility as they are entirely in charge of making sure they are properly cared for the entire time they are away from the classroom.

Students are also responsible for making sure the class pet feels safe. They can learn about caring for something that is fragile and smaller than them, teaching them kindness and care.

74% of pet owners in the U.S. report an improvement in mental health due to their animal. Statistics show time and time again that animals can help relieve stress and anxiety, and regulate breathing and heart rates. Hospitals and therapy centers alike utilize animals to help make children and adults feel more relaxed. A pet in a classroom can provide a similar sense of peace and calm. Animals have been known to help calm children during panic attacks, and can be considered their friends, helping them feel less alone. A pet in a classroom can do this same kind of work. Students may feel at-ease when they can walk over and see their friendly pet. They may be able to relax and enjoy their day when they know they have their pet friend nearby.

During an anxiety or panic attack, a teacher may help students hold the pet to relax and feel better right away. Classroom pets can be a great tool in helping the class improve their mental and emotional health.

The classroom experience overall is enhanced with a class pet. Students who don't have exposure to animals at home can still get the chance to interact with them. Students learn a sense of awareness when they are able to interact with animals regularly. Similarly, students have something exciting to look forward to when there is a pet in their classroom. Instead of dreading going to school, kids are excited for the chance to go and interact with their class pet! It gives them something exciting to expect every day in their classroom. Animals also help the class feel more excited about learning. They will enjoy doing math or science projects that involve their class pet. Students also are able to see how their actions affect others. They see that when they care for the pet, it is happy to interact with them. They see that when they feed and clean the pet, it is happier. Classrooms can greatly benefit from the richness that a pet can bring.

If you are a current or aspiring teacher and are interested in having a classroom pet, it's important to carefully weigh your options before you choose one. Some things you need to consider include:

The size of the animal

Allergies to certain kinds of animals

The location where you live

The area in the classroom you have for a pet

The level of care it needs

How they will be cared for during the weekend

The age of your students

Curriculum that you want to include the animal in

Some animals that make excellent classroom pets include:

If you're studying to become a teacher, it's smart to start thinking now about what kind of classroom environment you want to create. A classroom pet can be a great addition to your classroom.

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Teachers have many unique ways to help students learn, from fun activities to quizzes and tests. Interactive learning is always an extremely valuable way to help kids understand new concepts. And beyond math and science, teachers are also working to teach kids important social skills and behaviors as well.

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Animal Welfare Concerns in Educational Settings

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Animal Welfare Concerns in Educational Settings

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The article discusses potential stress on animals in busy classroom environments and challenges with proper care during weekends and holidays. Remember, we need to consider the animals' well-being in this debate!

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What are the issues with having pets to teach kids in the classroom.After working with rodents in the lab for 7 years, the ethical concern for animal rights became undeniable. I became more compassionate and careful to treat all living creatures with dignity and respect. While certain teachers think that having animals in the classroom is beneficial for kid’s learning, there might be better solutions. Having classroom pets is attractive. Teachers may think that they’re necessary tools for kids

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Social & Emotional Learning (SEL)

When elementary students care for animals, they practice making decisions and create a positive classroom environment.

Courtesy of Mason Nichols

Our bearded dragon, in costume

When students first walk into some of the classrooms on our campus, they're greeted by bearded dragons, tortoises, tarantulas, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, and snakes. Immediately, students are intrigued and sometimes anxious.

Our campus and district believe in supporting students' social and emotional learning in a variety of ways. Using classroom pets to support the emotional needs of elementary students is a helpful tool for creating a positive and nurturing classroom.

Why Have Classroom Pets?
Courtesy of Mason Nichols
When they hear the phrase classroom pets, some teachers immediately shake their heads in disgust or disapproval. Classroom pets, however, give students the opportunity to learn responsibility, love, and how to take care of a living animal.

Before any student can handle one of the animals, our teachers first tell students they have to prove they can manage caring for an animal. The teacher has to trust the student, and this builds a positive relationship with the student. Then I tell students they have to become an expert on the animal. Some classes will read books from the library, while upper elementary students will research how to care for the animal(s) and read about their diet, habitat, and ecosystem.

In my classroom, I've had a hedgehog and a bearded dragon, two very different animals with very different needs. Our classroom duties include two rotating "veterinarian" jobs where students care for and handle animals. Prior to the job rotating to the next set of students, the "vets" have to teach other students about the care of the animals.

Social and Emotional Learning

Having animals allows students to care for something that has feelings. Many students learn to love these animals and ask to visit them years later. Students learn responsibility by feeding the animals the appropriate amount of food and managing their waste. Students read to the animals and learn to care for others with love and kindness. If a student is feeling anxious or upset, they can go to the animal's cage and watch the animal, and then practice some breathing exercises and regulate themselves.

Students can also make connections between their needs and the animal's, such as physical and emotional needs. At times, our bearded dragon can get nervous when a student he doesn't know picks him up. With patience and practice, he becomes comfortable being handled and petted. Students can recognize similarities to the dragon; if the dragon is feeling nervous, they recognize how our own bodies feel when anxious and can then support the animal.

Unfortunately, as with any living creature, an animal can become sick or die. If a pet becomes ill, we're able to show students connections between animals being sick and seeing a vet and humans seeing health care providers. Last year, one of our teachers lost one of the class's guinea pigs. She told the class what happened and how they all knew the guinea pig was sick and did everything they could to help it.

Some students shared funny moments they had experienced with the guinea pig; some coped by writing goodbye letters and drawing pictures. Parents supported us by printing pictures of the guinea pig and giving them to students to put throughout the classroom. While this was a very sad situation, it brought the classroom together and helped students support one another.
Courtesy of Mason Nichols
For some students, seeing an animal they don't come across often can produce anxiety. Within teaching boundaries, we reinforce student choices-if a student is interested in handling an animal, they can, after the proper education and training. Learning about the animal can help ease anxiety about the animal.

I had a student who was scared of the scales on the bearded dragon. After learning how the scales protect the animal, the student was less fearful and eventually learned to pet and care for the bearded dragon. Some students feel anxious and skeptical about holding a tarantula until they realize how fragile and delicate they are. Other teachers have had similar situations with snakes, and having students learn about the animal helped create respect in the student for the animal and eased anxiety.

Seeing how students interact with animals and care for them has encouraged parents to support the use of classroom pets. Most of the animals we have at our school are hypoallergenic, so most students can be around the animals easily. With classroom pets, students not only learn nurturing skills but also learn about life cycles and other science-related topics. When the tarantulas, bearded dragons, and snakes molt, for example, students learn about the process of molting.

With the use of wish lists and other resources within the community, teachers have been able to get supplies and food for the animals, typically without having to pay out of pocket, from local education agencies and organizations that provide grants and funds such as Donors Choose.

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How Classroom Pets Foster Social and Emotional Learning

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When elementary students care for animals, they practice making decisions and create a positive classroom environment.

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Many teachers consider bringing animals into their classrooms as a way to teach students about responsibility, pet care, animal science, and more. We know that many teachers who keep classroom "pets" do so with good intentions and a love for animals. But a classroom simply isn't a suitable home for an animal, and there are many factors that kind teachers need to consider before bringing one into theirs.

While children can undoubtedly benefit from knowing and learning to care for animals, those lessons must be taught in situations where all variables are controlled-a virtually impossible feat in a bustling classroom full of curious youngsters. There are many ways to teach students responsibility and appreciation for animals that don't involve putting vulnerable lives at risk.

As educators, it's our responsibility to teach students that each and every life is valuable. Here are facts that every teacher considering a classroom "pet" needs to know:

A Classroom Is an Unhappy 'Home' for Animals

When sensitive animals are confined to small cages or tanks in classrooms, their needs are rarely met and their natural instincts can't be accommodated. For example, mice and other small mammals are nocturnal, yet they're kept in brightly lit classrooms and regularly removed from their cages throughout the day, completely disrupting their natural sleep rhythms. Rabbits and rodents are prey animals, so they instinctively try not to show that they're sick or in pain-and they become terrified very easily, are fearful of being picked up by unfamiliar hands, and are even prone to suffering from heart attacks in stressful situations. Imagine how distressing it must be for animals to be handled by large numbers of children who may not know the correct way to hold them. It's virtually impossible for an animal in a classroom to be protected at every single moment when children outnumber adults.

While having classroom "pets" might be tempting and seem like fun, let's face it: You know that your busy classroom (and your many young learners' excited, inexperienced hands) are not the best thing for animals-and it's wrong to discount their needs and well-being.

Classroom 'Pets' Are Often Left Alone and Left Behind

Class "pets" are highly vulnerable to illness and neglect, as they're regularly left unmonitored at night and on the weekends. And when animals are left alone-even overnight-things can quickly take a turn for the worse. There have been countless cases of animals who died of heatstroke in classrooms during warm weekends or perished in the cold when the heat was turned off as everyone else went home. Small animals are at risk of heatstroke in temperatures as low as 82 degrees.

During school breaks, it's a scramble to find students who can take animals home with them-which presents another problem entirely. More often than not, if students do volunteer, their homes aren't screened, and they and their families are unprepared for the comprehensive care that small animals require (which can-and often does-lead to tragic consequences). A teacher in Beaverton, Oregon, for example, reported that a "classroom" gerbil who was sent home with a student endured a broken back and died after being played with recklessly. In another case, a rabbit was killed by a dog after being sent home with a student. A household full of kids, other animals, and unpredictable circumstances can be a dangerous place for a defenseless animal whose life depends on proper care.

If no students or teachers can take animals home during school breaks, they usually end up in severely crowded shelters-contributing directly to the homeless-animal crisis. Because of this-as well as the risks involved in keeping animals in the classroom-some shelters have even implemented rules against adopting animals for classroom use.

And what happens to "classroom" animals in an emergency? While these situations are (thankfully) uncommon, they do occur. Most schools, though, don't have emergency preparedness plans in place for the animals in their classrooms in the case of a fire, flood, or other disaster-meaning that, in all likelihood, the animals will be left behind to suffer. Is it realistic to think that the animals in your classroom will be rescued if your school faces an emergency?

It's a Health Risk for Kids

Having classroom "pets" poses a huge risk not only for the animals-it can endanger the students, too. Millions of kids suffer from allergies and asthma, which can both be triggered or exacerbated by the presence of certain animals and some types of animal bedding.

Bacteria, such as salmonella, can be spread by the handling of reptiles and amphibians and their enclosures, and small mammals, such as hamsters, rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats, and mice, can carry transmittable diseases, too.

Animals such as guinea pigs, sugar gliders, spiders, and snakes can also easily nip or bite students if they feel threatened, frustrated, or even hungry. Small animals are often handled roughly by eager students (many of whom have absolutely no experience doing so) and can become scared and uncomfortable, which could cause them to lash out in self-defense.

Animals in the Classroom Are at Risk of Abuse

Sadly, unintentional neglect isn't the only threat that classroom "pets" face. Even in the best of situations, animals in classrooms are at risk. Nearly every week, PETA learns about animals who have been hurt or killed by young people (and we assume that countless other incidents go unreported). PETA has also received many reports of neglect and awful cruelty to animals who are kept in schools. The following incidents are a few of them:

Arlington, Texas: A group of high school students strangled a classroom "pet" ferret to death during class, allegedly to elicit a response from their teacher.

Beaverton, Oregon: A gerbil who was sent home with a student endured a broken back and died after being played with recklessly. A rabbit was killed by a dog after being sent home with another student.

Cape Coral, Florida: A rabbit who was allegedly kept with three others in a wire cage at a school died after being chased during a weekend.

Helena, Arkansas: A snake was stolen from his classroom enclosure and cooked to death in a school microwave.

Hoboken, New Jersey: An African dwarf frog died after apparently being overfed by a kindergarten student.

Lawrence, Kansas: A rabbit at the Hilltop Child Development Center died after his tail was apparently pulled off.

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia: A rabbit was found decapitated and the body strewn about the campus, and a guinea pig died from shock at Smith Street Early Learning Centre.

Monterey, California: A goldfish being kept as a "pet" in a middle school classroom was killed after bleach was poured into his water.

Orlando, Florida: Several snails died after students purposefully shook the jars in which they were being kept. The animals were being used as part of a cruel bottle biology experiment in a science classroom.

Santa Rosa, California: A hamster was tortured and killed at Northwest Prep Charter School during a break-in by five juveniles between the ages of 11 and 14.

Staten Island, New York: A hamster was stolen from Eden II School during a burglary and was never recovered.

Tampa, Florida: Nine gerbils died after they were deprived of food and water for more than two weeks, finches died of exposure, and a ball python froze to death in the head of the science department's classroom at Freedom High School.

Yorktown, Virginia: A gerbil in a Grafton High School classroom was allegedly killed by a student who became upset. The student was charged with cruelty to animals.

Having Animals in the Classroom Supports Cruel Breeders and the Hidden Horrors of the Pet Trade

Many small animals used as class "pets" come from awful breeding facilities, where they're kept in horrific conditions, deprived of proper veterinary care, and left vulnerable to abuse. Breeders also directly contribute to the severe animal-overpopulation crisis and destroy the chances that animals in shelters have of finding good homes.

There Are Better Ways to Teach

Kids can learn responsibility and develop respect for animals in countless ways that don't put a single animal at risk. Teach responsibility through community service projects and by caring for plants and/or a school garden. Teach children about the life cycle and animal behavior by observing local wildlife, watching high-quality documentaries, or using computer programs. Children should never be misled into thinking that animals are classroom tools-there's never an excuse to put an animal's well-being at risk. Every lesson that can be taught with live animals can also be taught in kind and thoughtful ways that don't jeopardize anyone's life.

Respecting Animals Means Leaving Them Out of the Classroom-so What Can You Do?

Say no to classroom "pets" and yes to humane teaching methods. Pledge NEVER to keep animals in your classroom, and share information with your students and staff about why you choose to do so. Choose enriching classroom activities that show students to respect, care for, and empathize with animals without keeping them in unnatural situations or putting them at risk. Be creative-animals are living beings, not teaching tools, and there are much better ways to instill important lessons in children.

Speak up for animals at risk in your school. If your school is keeping animals-either as "pets" or as teaching "tools"-voice your disagreement! If you're comfortable doing so, communicate with the staff members involved, explaining the cruelty inherent in the pet trade and in keeping animals in the classroom, along with the many risks that are involved and the message that it sends to students.

Change your school's policy. You can even write a letter to your principal and school board members, asking them to implement a policy regarding keeping animals in the school. Be sure to include all the pertinent information, and contact usif you need any assistance!

Remember, it's never too late to do what's right. If you already have an animal in your classroom, please make the compassionate decision either to take the animal home or to find a sanctuary where he or she can live peacefully and with appropriate care. Explain to your students why you're making this decision and use it as an honest, teachable moment.

Living beings should never be put in danger in order to be used as an example or part of a lesson. Just because we can do something doesn't mean that we should do it-and when it comes to keeping animals in the classroom, the risks to the animals' well-being will always outweigh any potential benefits to the students (which can easily be achieved through kinder means). It's our responsibility to make sure that we treat animals with respect, dignity, and their best interests in mind-and teach our students to do the same.

Every teacher can lead with compassion. Join TeachKind for free to receive lesson plans, classroom ideas, tips on humane education, and more!

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What's the Problem With Classroom 'Pets'? | PETA

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Thinking about getting a classroom "pet"? Think again. Find out why the classroom is NOT a good place for animals.

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Exploring the Benefits of Animals in the Classroom

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There’s been an increasing trend of incorporating animals into classrooms as a tool for enhancing students’ educational and emotional development.

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Class pets are far from new - from hamsters to frogs to fish, animals have been showing up in the classroom as both a teaching tool and non-judgmental friend for elementary schoolers for decades.

But if you're debating a classroom pet, you're probably wondering a few things: Are class pets a good idea? What is a good class pet? And heck, what is the easiest pet to have in class?

We talked to some teachers and did the research to help you choose just the right pet for your classroom!

What Is the Most Common Class Pet?

Before you add an animal that you're going to have to be responsible for - ultimately anyway - you're probably going to want to check in with other teachers on what worked for them, right?

It turns out the most common classroom pet is a fish, followed by a guinea pig and then a hamster, according to statistics from the American Human Society. Bearded dragons and geckos are also popular with rabbits, turtles, snakes, and lizards all making the list of common class pets.

Are Class Pets a Good Idea?

This is the sort of question you need to ask before you welcome any kind of pet - are you in it for the long haul? Even if you're looping, you've got these students for a year or two max, and a class pet could live 2, 3, 5, or who knows how many years. So is it worth it to make this commitment?

Non-profit Pets in the Classroom, which provides grants for teachers to add a classroom critter (more on that later), surveyed more than 10,000 teachers who had received their grants and found that 50 percent of the teachers were using classroom pets almost every day as part of their curriculum. Not bad, huh?

And here are just some of the benefits you and your students may experience when adding an animal to the roll.

Animals create authentic, hands-on learning experiences (like scrubbing fish tanks at lunchtime... ?).

Caring for pets teaches compassion and responsibility.

Students learn to develop awareness and respect for living creatures.

What Are the Best Class Pets?

Hamster

You can thank author Betty G. Birney for ensuring keeping a hamster as a classroom pet would never go out of style. Her Humphrey the Hamster book series is a teacher and child favorite as it follows the trials and tribulations of a class pet when the class departs for the night. Think of it as Toy Story but with an animal in a classroom.

Hamsters tend to make good classroom pets because they require little maintenance and are fun to watch. Lessons about hamsters can focus on everything from habitats (hamsters tend to live in burrows) to eating habits (hamsters are omnivorous). Hamsters are nocturnal, so be aware that they will likely not be awake throughout the day, and because they tend to fight with other hamsters, they should be alone in a cage. That said, Pets in the Classroom considers these a "beginner" classroom pet.

Teach Starter Teacher Tip: Read The Best Seat in Second Grade by Katherine Kenah to your class - the hilarious story of what happens when you take the class hamster to the museum.

Axolotl

Beyond the glorious puns - somebody axoltl question, amirite? - these salamander-esque creatures from Mexico are fashionable on social media for good reason.

Carnivorous in nature and as teeny as a teacup, an axolotl can live for over a decade, and they're particularly valuable for the classroom because of their appearance in the popular Minecraft video game - allowing teachers to play on a real-life correlation.
Put good pet care center stage with a pet care comprehension task!
Fish

There are countless fish you can add as a classroom pet, and almost as many reasons as there are species to go this route! Not only are fish self-contained - ahem, you never have to worry about your kiddos handling them too much - but they also offer a soothing and tranquil addition to a corner of your room. You might even want to add them to your chill spot in your classroom!

Teacher Victoria (@msvsbusybees on Instagram) shared this fun set-up with us, including class rules on how to interact with your class pet!

Raising fish in the classroom is also a great way to teach children about life cycles, and you may even be eligible for outside funding to make it happen! Trout Unlimited, for example, gives funds to teachers to raise trout in the classroom to be released by students in waterways in the Northeast.

Turtle

Yes, turtles can live for 100 years or more, depending on the type, so you need to keep this in mind before inviting your very own Dribble into the classroom. But whether you're reading Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing in class this year or you're just looking for a very low-maintenance pet, a turtle can be a great pick. You'll need a good aquarium and the ability to control its temperature - so be sure to check with school maintenance that they won't shut off power to your room during a break.

Turtles in the classroom can open up conversations on the differences between reptiles and amphibians - they're the former - as well as invertebrates vs. vertebrates.

One important note: Turtles can carry salmonella, so it's important to ensure your students do not handle this classroom pet!
Get a "turtle as a pet" template for teaching about persuasive devices!
Your Own Pet

No, we're not suggesting you bring Fido or Peaches in from home. But a photo or cardboard cut-out that turns them into a class mascot can make for a lot of fun! Not to mention it's good for class morale.

First-grade teacher Lisa Carnes, for example, shared this adorable 2D version of her corgi Finley who is now a part of her class!

Speaking of ...

Worst Classroom Pets

As much as we'd love to bring our cats and dogs to school, we all know that's just not going to cut it. And while would never say any animal is "bad" per se, and these are simply bits of information to keep in mind when considering "is this pet good for my classroom"!

Ferrets

Depending on your tastes, ferrets may seem adorable and perfect class pets. But not only are the critters known for biting - albeit small nips and play-biting that may be OK in a home setting but not so much in a classroom - they also have a distinctive musky smell that can permeate your classroom.

Rabbits

Although they're small and seem easy to pop in a cage, rabbits aren't really meant to be kept cooped up, according to folks at the American Human Society. They're also not fond of noisy environments like a classroom.

Chickens

They make excellent pets, yes really, and there's the added science lesson that comes with their egg-laying, but chickens need a ton of space to thrive.

Birds

While we're on the topic of chickens, it's worth talking about their species in general. Although there is plenty to be learned from observing birds in the classroom, and they're often highly intelligent, the CDC warns that many birds carry a host of diseases that may make you shy away when it comes to a class pet.

Lizards

They seem like their care is easy, but lizards tend to need very specific temperatures - which means leaving on a Friday and coming back to school on a Monday after the heat went out could be a big, big problem.

A Few Things to Consider Before Committing to a Class Pet

Those of us who have, or have had pets in the past, will know that it's not really as simple as choosing a fish and creating a fish-tank cleaning roster for your students. Deciding to care for a class pet is a big decision and one that shouldn't be taken lightly. As mentioned above, these living creatures will be depending on you, your students, and quite possibly other members of your class community, to provide them with a safe and comfortable life.

You will need to consider:

What is the temperature like in your classroom when it is not occupied? If air conditioning or heaters are turned off when the humans leave, is the environment still okay for your pet?

Who will care for your class pet over weekends and school break? Is the pet easy to care for if going home with students and their families?

What is the lifespan of your class pet? Will it outlast your time as a teacher?

Do the species travel well? Class pets can do a lot of travel!

How much will it cost to feed and provide care for the pet, and who will pay for it?

If you have more than one pet of the same species together, have you ensured they cannot breed?

How will you cover the pet's veterinarian bills?

Class Pet Grants for Teachers

In addition to Trout Unlimited, there are several non-profits that provide funding to teachers to help cover the costs of having classroom pets! Check out these funding sources:

Pets in the Classroom - Gives yearly sustaining grants of $50 for classrooms pre-K through 9th grade to help teachers care for pets throughout the year as well as "rebate" grants for the purchase of class pets through PetSmart.

Petco - The pet supply store provides grants to teachers to fund class pets.

The Bee Grant - While you won't exactly be setting up a beehive inside the classroom, there are pollinator grants that can help you set one up outside on school grounds to help save the bees!

Tell us, have you ever had a class pet?
Share your experience in the comments below, and check out some of ouranimal-related teaching resources!

Banner image via shutterstock/morrowmind

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The Best Class Pets and the Worst to Keep in a Classroom

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Class pets are far from new - from hamsters to frogs to fish, animals have been showing up in the classroom as both a teaching tool and non-judgmental friend for elementary schoolers for decades. But if you're debating a classroom pet, you're probably wondering a few things: Are class pets a good idea?

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Animals kept in the classroom are dangerous for animals and students.

Children have a natural love for animals. It's not surprising that many teachers think that having a classroom "pet" would be a fun and engaging way to teach children about responsibility and biology. But classrooms are stressful, dangerous, and even deadly for animals. Classroom "pets" also teach children the wrong lesson about wild animals and the environment.

1. Small Animals Suffer in Crowded, Noisy Classrooms

Many small animals are sensitive to noise and experience incredible stress in loud, chaotic classrooms. For example, as prey animals, guinea pigs and hamsters are extremely sensitive to loud noises and frighten easily. These traits aren't a good match for large groups of rambunctious children.

Animals also require continual care, but schools shut down by 5pm and are closed on the weekends. Can you imagine being left alone and in the dark for days at a time? Some class "pets" are shipped home with various students on weekends and over school breaks. Being constantly moved and kept in strange environments is very stressful and leaves animals vulnerable to neglect and cruelty as they pass through strangers' homes.

2. Handling Class "Pets" Endangers Children's Health

Reptiles, amphibians, and other small mammals are a common source of Salmonella. The CDC warns families with children under five years old to avoid reptiles and amphibians because of the serious risk of illness from the germs they carry. Salmonella can cause severe illness and death, especially in young children. People with reptiles and amphibians are advised to wash their hands frequently and follow other health guidelines.

Despite this, bearded dragons and turtles are commonly kept in preschool classrooms. Think about how difficult it would be to make sure a dozen four-year-old children wash their hands every time they touch a bearded dragon's cage!
A child petting a bearded dragon.
3. Classroom "Pet" Programs Benefit the Pet Industry, Not Animals

The pet industry likes classroom "pets" because it serves their business. Through its "Pets in the Classroom" grant program, the Pet Care Trust funds the purchase of animals to be used in classrooms. But a quick look at who sits on its board reveals the likely motivation. The Pet Care Trust is run by pet food and pet product manufacturers, as well as representatives from PetSmart and Petco. It all comes down to money. Not only do these companies profit when teachers buy food and supplies for animals in classrooms, but they're telling children that it's okay to buy animals and keep wild animals in captivity. In other words, they're creating a new generation of customers under the guise of philanthropy! Virtually all animals sold in stores come from cruel mills where many animals suffer and even die. Teaching children compassion shouldn't be tied up in an industry with a long track record of animal cruelty.

4. Wild Animals Don't Belong in Captivity

Wild animals belong in the wild, not a cage or tank. Putting a turtle in a classroom doesn't teach children about a turtle's habitat or natural behaviors. It teaches them that turtles exist for our use and warps their understanding of what a turtle needs to thrive (hint: it's not a tank).

We recognize that there are millions of wild animals already in captivity due to the greed of the pet industry. Sadly, almost all of these animals cannot be safely released into the wild. As we work to make this the last generation of wild animals living in captivity, we support groups caring for animals rescued from the cruel pet industry and helping them get adopted. But for the other reasons listed above, a class "pet," even one who was adopted, is still not a great idea.

Teachers interested in keeping animals in the classroom have good motivations and likely a love for animals themselves. Checking out humane education resources like those offered by HEART or visiting an accredited sanctuary is a better way to foster empathy in children.

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4 Reasons to End Classroom "Pet" Programs

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Animals kept in the classroom are dangerous for animals and students.

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Having a class pet can be a great experience for both students and teachers. However, there are plenty of pros and cons to consider before jumping in and getting on for your class.

Pros of Having a Class Pet

Hands-on Learning

One of the biggest pros of having a class pet is that it can provide an opportunity for hands-on learning. Having a class pet in the classroom provides an excellent way to teach topics such as animal behavior, biology, habitat requirements, and more! Students can observe and interact with the class pet on their own level, providing them with unique learning experiences that they may not have access to outside of school.

Emotional Support

In addition to educational benefits, class pets can also offer emotional support to students. Studies have shown that animals can help reduce stress levels in students and encourage better social behavior among classmates. By introducing a class pet into your curriculum, you are helping your students connect with nature and gain a better understanding of the world around them.

Teaches Life Skills

Having a class pet can help special ed students learn important life skills. They can observe and interact with the class pet and learn things like the importance of food, water, shelter, and mental stimulation. They can also get an understanding of how much time, effort, and money is needed to care for an animal.

Cons of Having a Class Pet

While there are plenty of pros to having a class pet, they can also come with some cons.

Challenging Classroom Management

Classroom management is essential when having class pets, as it can be difficult to keep students from becoming overly distracted by them. For classrooms where behavior can be challenging and violent outbursts are not uncommon, a class pet may not be safe in such an environment.

Time Requirements Outside of School Hours

Class pets require a considerable amount of attention and resources to keep them healthy and safe-this includes providing proper housing, food, and veterinary care. That can be draining on both time and financial resources that are already stretched thin.

Not Appropriate for All Ages and Levels

Class pets may not be suitable for all class sizes or age levels; younger children may have difficulty understanding how to interact properly with animals, while older students may be too rough in their handling of class pets.

The Best Classroom Pets

Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are great class pets due to their gentle nature, small size, and low maintenance needs. They can easily be handled by children of all ages and make great companions in the classroom environment. They also provide an excellent opportunity for students to learn about animal behavior through observing and interacting with them.

Fish

Fish are a very popular class pet option as they require minimal upkeep and don't take up too much space in the classroom. A fish tank also provides an interesting visual element that can be used for teaching various class topics, such as ocean life or ecology. Students will enjoy watching fish swim around their aquarium, while teachers can use it for discussion-based activities about water quality or tank care requirements!

Hamsters & Mice

Hamsters and mice make great class pets due to their playful personalities and relatively easy maintenance needs-they only need daily cleanings, food/water refills, occasional cage changes, etc. Both species are docile enough that students of any age group should have no problem handling them safely when instructed properly on how to do so!

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles and amphibians can be an interesting class pet option. Many species of reptiles and amphibians, such as geckos or frogs, require minimal effort to care for and provide students with the opportunity to observe a variety of behaviors in these animals. However, it's important to note that some reptile and amphibian species may not be suitable for classroom settings due to their specialized habitat requirements or unpredictable behavior. They can also carry bacteria and diseases you do not want to expose your students to.

Whether you're looking for a low-maintenance class pet or want to introduce an interesting and unique creature into your classroom environment, there are many options out there! Studies have shown that animals can help reduce stress levels in students and encourage better social behavior among classmates. By introducing a class pet into your curriculum, you are helping your students connect with nature and gain a better understanding of the world around them.

Ultimately, it's important to carefully consider the pros and cons before deciding if a class pet is right for your class. With the right preparation and management, class pets can be a great addition to any classroom!

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