It explores how we might live with compassion and respect for everyone: not just our friends and neighbours, but all people; not just our own dogs and cats, but all animals; not just our own homes, but also the earth itself, our ultimate home.

Humane educators inspire people to live examined, intentional lives so that what they do today helps the planet, animals and all people tomorrow.

Source: https://humaneeducation.org/

Attitudes and Values

The study of human-animal relations offers a clear and adaptable lens through which to address one of the most important — and sadly too often neglected — elements of the New Zealand curriculum: the development of the values and attitudes that form young people into responsible and compassionate citizens.

Some of the crucial lessons for children are learnt via their relationships with animals, including:

• Finding out about the natural world
• Assuming responsibility for the well-being of another living being
• Grieving over the loss of a loved companion

This means that school students are very often already interested in thinking and learning about animals.

Moreover, the psychological and social links between empathy for animals and concern for the well-being of other humans are now very thoroughly documented. In this sense, animal studies are an appropriate and necessary component of an inclusive education.

“Learning about animals and animal protection helps to instil values of care and compassion in young New Zealanders.”