Small pet makes big difference
13 July 2009
By Claire Munro
School pets ... guinea pigs TJ (on shoulder) and Jordan Fluffy with students from Durack State School.
He chews fruit in class, scratches loudly during silent reading and occasionally displays anti-social behaviour.
But despite his misdemeanours, a small class pet has made a big difference to a class of Year 5 students at Durack State School in Brisbane's west.
Principal Beth Petersen said the school enrolled TJ the white guinea pig to help engage a student with an intellectual impairment.
'The boy had been quiet and withdrawn in the classroom and experienced difficulties in the playground,' Ms Petersen said.
'During discussions with the student's family, we decided his affinity with animals could provide a curriculum context that would capture his interest. We believed a class pet, with the boy as primary carer, was the answer.'
Ms Petersen said the plan to acquire a class pet included guidelines for appropriate care.
'As primary carer, the student would care for the animal at home on weekends and holidays,' she said.
'The student and his teacher researched suitable animals for school situations, considering species, housing needs and the general care and wellbeing of the animal.
'Guinea pigs were the clear winners and we ultimately acquired TJ.'
Ms Petersen said TJ was an active member of the class and had even participated in parent-teacher interviews.
'TJ has not only helped this student, he has had a calming influence on the whole class,' she said.
'We have seen significant positive changes in the young boy and he participates willingly in class tasks.
'TJ's presence has helped all the students develop positive social skills of sharing and caring and attentiveness in class.
'The positive benefits of this classroom pet have exceeded all expectations. The students love him.'
Ms Petersen said the school had since acquired a guinea pig companion for TJ, Jordan Fluffy.
The Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 governs the use of animals in Queensland schools.
Guidelines for appropriate care of animals in schools are available on the Department of Education and Training's website.
For additional information, visit the RSPCA's website (new window) 
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