Teens: Chat With Award-Winning Author Tomorrow!

Why do animals go extinct?

What can people do to help keep endangered species alive?

If so many species have died off, why did you, as an author, choose these specific animals to write about?

J. Patrick Lewis, award-winning author of nearly 40 books for kids, has written poems about the history and beauty of 22 extinct animals in Swan Song, featured this month on the ASPCA’s Henry’s Book Club. Lewis, who has been writing for kids for over 20 years, will chat with teen readers about extinct animals and what it’s like to be an author. Please join us in the ASPCA Online Community tomorrow, Wednesday, March 26, 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. EST.

Go, Nikki, Go!

We recently wrote about Nikki Granat, the 12-year-old singer who did a benefit concert for us. Nikki’s concert in New Jersey raised over $300 for the ASPCA. Wow!

Now Nikki’s back—this time on the radio! This Saturday, the little songbird will be a guest on Junson Radio Kids.

“Tune in to hear Nikki's story, and how you can join her in her efforts to help homeless animals.”

Jonzun Radio Kids airs every Saturday, from 12:30-1:00 P.M., E.S.T, on WPUL 1590 AM. During broadcast times, the show streams worldwide.

Nikki Sets Good Standards for Kids—By Singing Them!

Why, thank you, Nikki Granat! Our new 12-year-old friend will be singing to raise money for the ASPCA and for The Friends Of County Animal Shelters in Bergen County, New Jersey.

Proud parents Jay and Robin Granat wanted to introduce their daughter to the concept of philanthropy, and asked her to choose a charity to support. “I feel bad when I see puppies without homes and I wanted to sing to help them,” says Nikki.

Crooning classics by legends like Nat King Cole and Jennifer Holliday, Nikki is obviously no ordinary kid. So show this special songbird some love in Jersey this weekend!

Performance info:
Sunday, September 16th
2:15 P.M.
Oritani Field Club; Hackensack, NJ

To read more about how kids can help animals, check out our kid site, Animaland!

Teachers, Invite the Animal Kingdom Into Your Classroom!

Want your classroom to be aflutter with young animal lovers this September? Check out the ASPCA's Humane Education section for some great ideas on how to incorporate animal themes and humane lessons into your plans. Kids love animals—and including them in a reading, writing or math activity can make the lesson more effective and double the fun.

You'll find:

- Back-to-school classroom tips

- An animal-themed event calendar

- Downloadable lesson plans (in keeping with national standards)

- Children’s book list

And that's just for inside the classroom. We also offer service learning projects and links to volunteer opportunities that allow students to practice being humane citizens in the giant classroom outside of school.

Cascading Cat Mobile

Who wouldn't want a bunch of cats hanging around? This whimsical cat mobile will brighten any room and is especially purrfect for a child's room. It is handcarved and handpainted by artists on the island of Bali, Indonesia, from non-endangered plantation wood. The three-dimentional work of art comes fully assembled and balanced. All you need to do is hang it.

This mobile should not be used over a baby's crib. The product is recommended for ages 6 and up. (But isn't it nice that older kids get to have a mobile, for once?)

Visit our online store for more details on the product.

Just for Kids! Ask Azula: Do Chipmunks Make Good Pets?

I was thinking of catching a wild chipmunk. Do you have any opinions on this animal as a pet? —Erica, age 13

You may not like what I am going to say, Erica, but I’ve gotta say it. At ASPCA Animaland, we think it’s great to have companion animals as pets (animals who have been domesticated, or bred to live with humans), but we strongly believe that wild animals should not be kept as pets.

Learn More

Just for Kids! New on ASPCA Animaland: Nose for News

KIDS WHO ROCK The Tech Squad at MS 391 gave an awesome Christmas present to NYC's homeless pets.

DOGS WHO ROCK Meet some canines who can ride skateboards and play the piano (not at the same time, though!).

PUPPY LOVE You asked if we had any awesome pics of pooches? You got 'em!