Alex kids taught to care for their animals
MARLBORO – Alex children and their parents had a fun way of learning to care for their canine and feline friends.
Hordes of Alex children and their parents converged on the SPCA in Marlboro where they were educated about the humane treatment of animals and, in particular, man’s best friend – dogs.
The edutainment roadshow was organised by Zinto Marketing Group (Zinto) in partnership with the Sandton SPCA to promote responsible pet ownership. As part of its holiday programme, the campaign communicated key messages about better animal care and welfare among children from lesser-resourced communities who share a special bond with their furry friends; as well as the importance of sterilisation, health, hygiene, nutrition and the ethical treatment of animals.
Zinto’s edutainment format cleverly incorporated pop culture and the brand character, Ken, to deliver educational messages in a format that youngsters understand and which enabled them to learn while enjoying the experience.
Through positive exposure to the animals, the interactive show allowed youngsters to become familiar with cats and dogs and reassured them that they are loyal and devoted companions.
It emphasised the need for ongoing health and safety checks and encouraged children to treat all living creatures humanely.
Wilna Lamb of the Sandton SPCA issued a ‘big heartfelt thank you to Zinto for the amazing’ programme presented to the children in the community, and said, “It was heartwarming to watch them wait in anticipation for Ken to arrive and the joy on their faces when he finally stepped out and up on stage.”
Lamb said the interactive way in which pet care was addressed was a great experience for both the children and the adults who accompanied them. She said the programme provided them with education, entertainment and something fun and new that they otherwise would not have experienced.
“Through initiatives such as this we can only but strengthen our aim to educate individuals on the importance of pet care and carrying the message forward for the next generation,” she said.
Lamb added that the purpose was to build support from a young age by encouraging the urban youth market to adopt, donate or become a volunteer at the shelter, which cares for more than 300 stray, abandoned, rescued and unwanted canines and felines.
