Bringing a new animal into your classroom is exciting for everyone.  You’ve got a lot on your plate now: researching your pet, getting your pet comfortable in its newhome, incorporating your pet into the curriculum, and keeping your pet safe and healthy.  It may seem like a lot of responsibility, but having a plan and the right information available to you will make the transition an easy one. Veterinarians are excellent resources for teachers who have classroom pets.

Pets in the Classroom knows it is important to have a veterinarian for your pet.  There are many options, so make sure you look for a vet that both you and your animal feel comfortable with, and is experienced in treating the kind of animal you have.  Once you make your pick, your vet will help you set up a pet care program that is right for your pet. Keep a record of any vaccines or other care received by the pet.  You never know when a situation could arise where you’ll need that information available.  Other important things to have on record are phone numbers for your vet and other agencies, like a poison control hotline.  This record is important to send with the pet during breaks and when the pet is being cared for outside of the classroom.

This may seem unnecessary, but being prepared for any situation will help to keep your pet safe.  Most veterinarians will recommend that you have a plan for how to manage any injuries should they arise, and will outline the signs that show your pet’s happy and well cared for. Having a vet you can turn to for advice and care when needed is an excellent resource for a healthy classroom pet.

If you have any questions about having a classroom pet please visit us at www.petsintheclassroom.org, or for your grant application.