We were delighted to welcome Peter Cleary from Dogs Trust, Ireland to the school this week. Peter paid a visit to all classes since Monday and imparted some of his extensive knowledge of dogs to the children.
When Peter visited the school in previous years, he brought his rescue dog, Magic, with him. Sadly, this time Peter couldn't bring Magic with him, as she is getting older - 12 years old which means she's in her 80s in human years. The excitement of meeting all the children is too much for her now. Peter did bring a soft toy dog with him for demonstration purposes.
Ireland has only one Dogs Trust Centre situated in Dublin. Every county has a dog pound however to cater for stray dogs. At the moment, there are 150 dogs in the centre and although they can cater for more than 200 dogs, Peter explained that they try to keep the numbers down so that they can give the correct amount of care to each dog. Usually the dogs that end up in the centre are unhappy and often unhealthy. Over time and with a huge amount of care, which includes not alone medicine and good food but also lots of exercise, the dogs become happy and healthy and ready to be housed with a new owner. At this point, the dogs meet with the centre's behavioural advisor, who will endeavour to house each dog with a suitable person or family, if there is one available. Unfortunately, some dogs don't find a match and so there are quite a few long term residents in the centre. Peter repeated that old saying 'A dog is for life, not just for Christmas'. Dogs Trust get the most calls and are at their busiest in January.
Peter gave the children some helpful tips about caring for a dog. By law, all dogs must be microchipped and must always wear a collar that bears the name and address of the owner. He told them about foods that you should never give dogs and food that is good for them. He stressed the importance of having your dog neutered to avoid having unwanted puppies. He encouraged walking your dog daily and most important of all...enjoy your dog!
