We are very proud to be the financial support for the Animal Welfare Department's Elementary School Outreach Program. Thanks to dedicated Animal Welfare Department volunteers, this program is in its sixth year in Albuquerque Public Schools. The program is currently targeted at second and third grade children, though many kindergarten and first grade boys and girls have enjoyed visits from the program's mascots. Kennel Kompadres pays for three coloring books and eight different trading cards. Donations to this program help to expand the program and keep the current mascots "in school"! Meet THE TEAM:
Smiley. Smiley was found wandering the streets of Albuquerque. When she came into the shelter, she was pregnant. The kennel staff helped Smiley birth and raise four adorable puppies. They were so adorable, in fact, that they quickly found homes when they were old enough. But, of course, no one paid attention to the "momma dog." Smiley was simply just another female dog who was showing the wear of raising and weaning puppies. The kennel staff, however, had gotten quite attached to Smiley. She had a wonderful and trusting personality and, of course, her winning "smile." They decided to give Smiley a job and several of the staff took turns playing foster parents to Smiley in their homes.
Smiley's story ends happily. She has a great permanent home with a human who absolutely adores her and a wonderful job teaching children all over Albuquerque how to care for their pets and not get bit by strange dogs. Smiley dons her bandana and waits by her master's door on Tue
sday mornings during the school year, ready to lick faces and get loads of pets.
Jake. A big, happy-go-lucky fella, Jake's story is similar to Smiley's. He was found and brought to the shelter. Though he was sweet and loved to play, he was originally thought to be around seven years old. Of course, NO ONE wanted an "old dog". However, this old dog already knew a bunch of tricks--he could fetch, sit, stay, shake, and "speak." Jake's story is a pretty happy one, too, however. One of the shelter's volunteer dog walkers fell in love with Jake. He and his special person, along with a volunteer handler, visit schools on Friday mornings. This is Jake's fifth year in school.
Jake teaches children how to behave around dogs so that they don't get bitten. Jake says, "BARK"! (Be Aware, Responsible, Kind)
Arnie. A giant of a cat who happily walks on a harness and leash and checks out all the classrooms to make sure there are no mice lurking under the children's desks. Arnie teaches children about the differences between cats and dogs and to respect those differences. Arnie says, "A safe cat is a happy cat. Make sure to keep your cat safely inside the house." This is Arnie's third year in school.
Daisy. Just joining the team is this wonderful youngster. Daisy was found wondering the west mesa of Albuquerque. A starving puppy, she existed on what she could find, mostly lizards. The medical and kennel staff at the shelter nursed her to health and found her a super home where she has eagerly learned how to "high five" and other fun tricks.
