At our school, we are thrilled to continue PETS—Practicing Empathy, Tierheim Support—a club led by Mrs. Slough-Kuß and Mr. Slough. PETS is dedicated to helping our local humane society in Dreieich (Tierheim Dreieich e.V.) through meaningful, hands-on service. This club, part of our students' Service and Action activities and CAS projects, allows students from DP1 and MYP to make a tangible impact in their community. Here’s a closer look at the vision and efforts behind PETS, shared by the club's leaders.
The Mission of PETS: Think Global, Act Local
The heart of PETS lies in its mission: “Think global, act local.” The club aims to foster a lasting, supportive relationship with the Dreieich humane society, which provides care for animals in need. By gathering donations and providing essential supplies, PETS members are ensuring that the humane society can continue its work while building connections within the community. Mrs. Slough-Kuß and Mr. Slough envision PETS as a sustainable initiative that encourages empathy and kindness toward animals.
How It Works: Donation Drives and On-Campus Pet Store
One of PETS's most successful initiatives is their on-campus pet store, where students and parents can purchase pet supplies that are immediately donated. The process is simple and effective: the club members stock items for sale in the school lobby, and anyone can purchase them and place them in a designated shopping cart. From there, all donations go directly to the humane society.
This system has proven to be a hit, with regular drop-offs to the humane society. Mrs. Slough-Kuß notes that the donation cart is always available in the lobby, allowing for ongoing contributions. Items that are especially needed include wet cat and dog food (dry food is also accepted, but the humane society specifically needs wet food), blankets, towels, pet beds, and supplies for smaller animals like rabbits and birds. Cleaning supplies are also in high demand, as they help the humane society maintain a safe and sanitary environment for the animals.
Upcoming Initiatives and Parent Involvement
PETS is also working closely with the school’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) to maximize their outreach and participation. As more parents come into the school during PTO events, the club is planning to increase the frequency of their sales to align with these events, with hopes of hosting one sale per month. This collaboration will allow the club to make an even greater impact and engage a larger portion of the school community.
Beyond donations, PETS has some ambitious plans in the works. One project Mr. Slough is exploring includes purchasing an industrial-grade air filter for the humane society, which would help keep the shelter clean and safe for the animals and the employees. However, finding the right device has proven challenging. PETS would love to connect with any parents in our school community who work for industrial device companies and could offer insight or assistance in locating an appropriate air filter.
Celebrating Pets as Part of the Family
PETS also celebrates the bond between students and their pets. As part of this initiative, anyone in the school who has a pet is encouraged to send in a picture of themselves with their pet, along with their name and the pet’s name. These photos are then displayed on a “Pet Wall,” which has been growing week by week. This special wall reminds everyone that pets are more than animals—they’re family members, too.
Looking Forward: Education and Long-Term Goals
While PETS is still in its early stages, the club leaders have exciting long-term goals. They hope to invite speakers from the humane society to visit our school and share insights into animal welfare, stray animals in Germany, and the responsibilities of pet ownership. PETS is even exploring the possibility of inviting a veterinarian to educate students on animal care. By creating these opportunities, PETS aims to deepen students' understanding and empathy for animals while fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion.
Get Involved and Make a Difference with PETS
The PETS club is making a real impact in Dreieich, and they invite the entire school community to get involved. Whether it’s through donating supplies, purchasing items from the pet store, or simply sending in a photo for the Pet Wall, every contribution helps. For parents or guardians with professional expertise in industrial devices, your knowledge could greatly assist PETS in securing the air filter that would make a significant difference for the humane society.
Through these efforts, PETS demonstrates how a small group of committed students, supported by dedicated teachers and parents, can make a big difference. PETS is more than a school club—it’s a movement towards empathy, community connection, and the well-being of all creatures in need.
