Animals

Organizations

The Gentle Barn
www.gentlebarn.org
A rescue and rehabilitation center for abused animals located in Santa Clarita. They care for many different kinds of farm animals and offer hands-on educational tours for schools, at-risk and special-needs youth addressing issues of animal abuse and neglect in a child friendly manner.

Danny’s Farm
www.dannysfarm.org
A farm setting that offers children on the autism spectrum or developmental/physical disabilities the opportunity to experience a working farm within a safe environment and make meaningful connections with animals. They also provide employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. (Also applies to Special Needs)

Friends of L.A. Animal Shelters
www.friendsoflaas.org
www.laloveandleashes.com
A volunteer-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing adoptions within the Los Angeles area animal shelters. They recently opened L.A. Love & Leashes, an adoption “pet store” located at the Westside Pavillion. Volunteers can work at this adoption center.

Books

Hey, Little Ant
www.heylittleant.wordpress.com
A child is about to squish a little ant, while the ant tries to compel the child not to. This picture book raises questions about the ethical treatment of animals, compassion, and even has a theme related to bullying. The story ends with, “What do you think that kid should do?” inspiring character-building discussions.

Manatee Blues (a book in the Vet Volunteers series)
http://madwomanintheforest.com/youngreaders-vet-volunteers/
A young girl, passionate about animal welfare, visits a manatee rescue center in Florida and learns that it is soon to be shut down due to lack of funding. This chapter book is an example of how young students can be stewards for threatened animals and the organizations who support such causes. (Also applies to Environment)

Have a resource to add? Leave it in the comments!