On June 10, Oregon Coast Humane Society (OCHS) Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson and Dr. Janel Montes, DVM, visited Wildflower Montessori School in Florence to provide students with a hands-on introduction to animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and the humane treatment of animals.
Throughout the day, students participated in a variety of interactive learning stations designed to teach responsible pet care and introduce them to careers in animal welfare and veterinary medicine. Students had the opportunity to wear a veterinarian’s jacket while examining animals, scan stuffed animals for microchips, study animal bones and X-rays, and practice bandaging techniques on stuffed patients.
The program was offered to both the morning and afternoon classes. During the morning session, two cats adopted from OCHS returned as special guests, allowing students to observe and participate in basic wellness examinations under the guidance of Dr. Montes. During the afternoon session, students performed similar examinations on two OCHS kittens while learning about the unique needs of young animals, including proper handling, socialization, and preventive care.
The hands-on experiences gave students a firsthand look at how veterinarians assess an animal’s health and highlighted the importance of routine veterinary care. Students were encouraged to ask questions, practice observation skills, and learn how compassion and responsible care can improve the lives of animals.
“Humane education helps children develop empathy, responsibility, and respect for animals,” said Elizabeth Thompson, Executive Director of Oregon Coast Humane Society. “By giving students hands-on experiences with veterinary tools and animal care, we hope to inspire compassion and help them become lifelong advocates for animal welfare.”
OCHS regularly provides humane education opportunities throughout the community as part of its mission to promote animal welfare, strengthen the human-animal bond, and create a more compassionate community for both pets and people.
You can view more pictures from the visit here: https://www.facebook.com/wildflowerms/posts/pfbid02GUWc5ES8qGwNysYq8dfbothnJ3SVRAjRa51sREVX4aQAjhksSLc83Jpj8Q3xWp6Rl
All students’ photos are allowed to be used and have signed releases on file with Wildflower Montessori School.