C.A.R.E.4Paws: Kids make a “pawsitive” impact on pets in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – C.A.R.4Paws is on a mission to promote safety for animals through its “Paws up for Pets” campaign.

"Our goal with this program is to really help out with animal welfare and help reduce any pet from suffering," said programs coordinator Wendy Domanski of C.A.R.E4Paws.

As a way to teach kids kindness compassion and empathy, the nonprofit organization launched the program in collaboration with the United Boys and Girls Club of Santa Barbara County.

"They teach the kids how animals are supposed to be handled … instead of a child curiosity to just go after the animals. So they are creating positive experiences for both our kids and the animals they encounter in the future," said assistant director Azalia Urena of the Goleta Boys and Girls Club.

This week the nonprofit organization known as Buns brought bunnies and guinea pigs to the Goleta Boys and Girls Club.

"It’s important for them to learn about animals so they can properly care for them and take care of them forever. We are going to teach how to pet ... how to love … once again proper nutrition … but also what they need in their homes .. litter boxes," said president Kimmy Swann of Buns.

"Our goal with this program is to really empower the kids to become animal ambassadors ... to help out with animal welfare, and to help reduce any pet from suffering, and if they see any type of animal abuse to have the courage to tell a parent or an adult," said Domanski.

"I hope that this continues they tell their friends and family members at home," said Urena.

The program is aimed to enhance empathy among friends, family members and the community as a whole. 

For more information on C.A.R.E4Paws long onto: https://care4paws.org/.