The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) has called on the Government to introduce an Animal Welfare and Responsible Pet Ownership module into primary school curriculums, to reduce cases of cruelty and neglect involving animals.

A similar model was introduced in many Educate Together schools over two years ago.

ISPCA CEO, Dr Andrew Kelly said: “The ISPCA believes that education is key to better animal welfare and responsible pet ownership and should be included in every primary school curriculum across Ireland.

Last year, over 16,000 calls were made to the National Animal Cruelty Helpline resulting in 3,200 investigations, 995 animals seized or surrendered and 32 prosecutions instigated under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

The vast majority of animal welfare cases was due to a lack of understanding of animal welfare needs and pet owners legal responsibility under the animal health and welfare act.

This is where improved animal welfare education can play an import role in cutting those numbers.

A simple measure like this could improve the welfare of tens of thousands of animals in the future.”   Speaking today, Green Party Deputy Leader, and a member of the Oireachtas Education Committee, Catherine Martin TD, said: “The Green Party is delighted to support the ISPCA’s call for animal welfare to be taught in our schools. 

The welfare of animals is an important aspect of our society, and if we can educate our children from an early age how best to look after their pets, then we are teaching them some important moral values which they will hopefully nurture in other aspects throughout their lives.”   Green Party Spokesperson on Animal Welfare Pippa Hackett said: “Such a scheme has been successfully applied in Educate Together schools with the assistance of the ISPCA, and we are calling on a nationwide launch in all primary schools. 

Developing children’s compassion for animals is hugely beneficial as it teaches them to think about the world around them and how we must care for it.”

The ISPCA is today calling on members of the public who care about animals and would like to see animal welfare taught in all primary schools across Ireland to sign our petition here.