Parents and carers in Jersey are being asked to speak to their children about being kind to animals, following 'several' reports of welfare concerns over the summer.
The JSPCA said those concerns have involved both domestic animals and wildlife 'in a variety of situations.'
The charity's keen to stress that it isn't about blaming anyone, but is concerned that without guidance, children won't know that chasing, cornering, or handling an animal roughly can cause fear and distress.
Tracy Millington, Animal Welfare Lead Adviser at the JSPCA, said:
"Children don't automatically know how animals communicate or when they need space. That's something we teach them.
"A few simple conversations can help children understand an animal's boundaries, recognise signs of fear or stress, and learn how to interact with animals safely and respectfully."
Families are being urged to discuss:
- How to give animals space and allow them somewhere to move away
- To never chase, corner, or repeatedly follow an animal that is trying to leave
- To be gentle and respectful when interacting with animals
- To learn to recognise signs that an animal is uncomfortable or frightened
- To remember that animals get stressed and scared just as we do
Tracy added:
"Whether it's a family pet, wildlife or an animal encountered while out and about, every interaction is an opportunityto show kindness and respect.
By helping children understand animal boundaries, we're helping to keep both animals and children safe."
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