Second graders from Park Elementary School took a trip to the Golden Belt Humane Society on Monday for story time. After Kennel Technician Aaron Pike read a story, there was time for cookies and juice. Children also got to pet some puppies and kittens while learning important lessons about animals from the shelter’s staff.
Heather Acheson, director of the humane society, compared lessons on approaching injured or stray animals to what kids learn about “stranger danger.” In other words, children need to be cautious and stay safe around dogs and cats they don’t know.
“If a dog snarls and growls, don’t touch it,” Acheson said. “Don’t run if a dog chases you,” she added. The correct thing to do is stand still and yell for help.
If an animal appears to be sick or hurt, it may be dangerous to try to help it. Again, children should find an adult to take change, she said.
Park teacher Deena Smith said one student learned a hard lesson about stray animals last year after being bitten by a cat. The student had to have rabies shots.
But the humane society is a safe place to visit animals under staff supervision, Acheson said. Young people might even get to volunteer. People are always needed to play with the animals and help them exercise, which is fun, and to clean out their kennels and litter boxes, which is not.
“Your parents need to come out with you if you want to volunteer,” Acheson said. The Golden Belt Humane Society is located south of Great Bend on U.S. 281.
While the humane society plans to invite more school children to visit, Smith said Monday’s visit by Park second  graders — and another one planned today for the other second grade class — coincides with what they are learning in their social studies class.
“We are talking about volunteering,” Smith said. “This is a good time of year for it.  Our school just got done collecting food for the food bank.”

Upcoming events
In addition to interacting with school children, the Golden Belt Humane Society is preparing for two fundraisers.
This Saturday, Nov. 30, is the second annual “Get off your butts and walk your mutts” 3-mile walk. It takes place from 1-4 p.m. in the Barton County Courthouse Square. Cost is $10. Each human entrant may walk one or two sociable dogs on 6-foot leashes.
Appointments are also being taken for pet photos for Christmas, taken at the Golden Belt Humane Society by Riggs Studio in Great Bend. Times are available Dec. 7 and 8. Call 620-792-2715.