A nation of animal lovers

In 2007 the law relating to the welfare of pets in England and Wales changed. Under the Animal Welfare Act, anyone who is responsible for a pet now has a legal responsibility to meet the five basic welfare needs (the five freedoms). Do your class know what they are?

This lesson introduces the concept of cruelty to animals, with a focus on pets, and whether it is deliberate or based on neglect. This lesson aims to teach pupils about the role of voluntary organisations/charities and the large number of animal welfare issues they deal with. Students should learn that we all have a responsibility towards animals and they all have different needs, they should recognise that there are laws in place to protect them.

Lesson plan and resources

Key Stage 2. Subject: PSHE, Pets.

A nation of animal lovers lesson plan

Included in this lesson plan:

• Starter activities
• Main activities
• Plenary activities
• Factsheet
• Teachers' notes
• Supporting presentation

Supporting materials

• Animals in need factsheet (PDF)
• Animal Welfare Act teachers notes (PDF)
• Presentation - A nation of animal lovers (Slideshow)
• Presentation - A nation of animal lovers (PDF)
• Presentation - A nation of animal lovers teachers notes (PDF)