The Zim Family Cocker Spaniel Forum

Forgive the length of explanation that goes with my request.

I work with developmentally disabled adults providing pre-vocational and vocational services. This means (in my area) the skills needed to start considering work of any type (including volunteer work or working with a "crew") as well as specific training in areas of interest. I am currently writing a 12 week course curriculum for an animal care program for those that want to work in Petsmart, Petco, small pet shops or even go on to take a vet tech course. One of the things I have made note of is that often the individuals I work with will only focus on one thing and then, if they get work, when asked to do something else, it throws them and they lose the job. So what I was trying to do is provide a varied training while covering what HAS to be taught and including additional skills they can use anywhere. To this end I came up with the idea to have those individuals research and compile "information sheets" that can be provided to anyone that might want information on an animal-based topic - sort of like the flyers you can pick up in doctor's offices. The people will have to use the computer to do the research and make the pages so they will - in addition to getting the training and learning additional animal facts - do keyboarding, learn publisher, learn excell (to keep a library and inventory), and so on.

The topics I came up with so far are: So You're Getting A Puppy, So You're Getting A Kitten, Guinea Pig Care, Poisons Your Pet Can Get Into At Home, Plants Your Pet Shouldn't Eat. Can you think of any other ideas for one page (front and back) information sheets to expand my assignments to my individuals?

I would add "Living with a House Rabbit." What we now know about pet rabbits is so dramatically different than in past decades. This includes house training a rabbit, why litter that is fine for guinea pigs is toxic to rabbits, and house proofing. Rabbits must chew to grind down their teeth so protecting electrical cords is a major task.

Colleen

How about:
- "When to see the vet" with tips on basic signs a pet is in trouble. I remember having a chat with one vet I had and he told me of various times people just wait too long and then it's too late (eg. dehydration from vomiting or overheating).
- "Safety tips for pets in extreme weather (summer or winter)"
- "The first nights in a new home" (expectations and ways of introducing the pet to family and other pets, houseproofing)
- "Common foods your pets shouldn't eat" (the human varieties like onion etc.)
- "Grooming/care tips"
- "How to find the right vet for your pet"

Disaster Preparedness for your Pet

Crate Training Your Dog
How To Choose A Breeder
How To Choose A Good Pet Food
Nothing In Life Is Free (also called Learn To Earn)

puppy proofing your home

How about Pet Respect.. how to approach and interact with your pet or a strange animal. Maybe one especially for young children?

in regard to the portion of your description stating "skills needed
to start considering work of any type", basic manners, courtesy &
customer service skills for interacting with people in a professional manner.

greeting people, saying please and thank you. being honest when
asked a question you do not know the answer to and saying, i do not know,
let me ask someone else. listening and notetaking for future reference
(when possible). just some basics that have, sadly, seem to have gone
by the wayside.

this comes to mind as within the last few days, twice i've had the displeasure
of approacing someone in a store for help and instead of any greeting, i am stared at.
personally i find that infuriating.

thank you and good luck with your program!