volunteering at an animal shelter

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 6/11/04 10:06:45 PM Central Daylight Time, autism-aspergers writes:

dogs, so owning one ourselves is not an option right now. I was wondering if anyone had found success in trying to get thier local SPCA or other rescue center to allow thier kids to come in and take care of and/or play with the animals. I am wondering if I am going to meet roadblocks for liability reasons as he is only 6 even though either dh or I would go with him to supervise. My thinking is the unconditional appreciation he could get from a dog would mean so much to him, even if it didn't do anything technically theraputic.>>>

**** HI

This is an excellent idea. I have been thinking along these lines for my son for a few years now. However, my son is now 15 and entering his sophomore year of high school. He is Aspergers. He loves animals and would liek to be a veterinarian. I would love to have him volunteer at our local animal shelter. I know the people who run that, and would love to have them give my son a chance to volunteer. In your case, your child is very young. I think that your son could help with another adult that you trust there with him or with you. I would check in to this. Most of these shelters need some one to help and the animals needs some attention and sometimes they need to learn to love children ( the animals) and get used to being around children.

Check it out and good luck.

hugs

in Illinois