Local cubs and beavers to earn their badges by Matt Whittaker, store manager at Pets at Home Swindon

Caring for animals is a really important skill that should be taught from an early age. Therefore, from this month we’re offering local Beaver and Cub Scout groups free workshops to help members gain their Animal Carer badge and Animal Friend badge.

In order to achieve the badge criteria, young people attending the workshops at our Swindon Bridgemead or Swindon stores will receive free workbooks to help record the advice they’ll receive from our trained in-store colleagues on how to care for pets responsibly.

To obtain their badges, Beaver and Cub Scouts will learn about the five welfare needs of animals and how to care for small animals, fish, reptiles or insects and understand the correct types, varieties and quantities of food to feed them. They’ll also find out about the right habitats, where they sleep and how to ensure they get enough exercise. Coupled with this they’ll learn how to keep animals healthy and recognise common illnesses as well.

Examples of suitable animals for this badge include dogs, cats, small animals, fish, birds and stick insects, and the badge should be completed by caring for one of these animals.

Our in-store pet advisers are always happy to share their extensive knowledge of animal care, particularly with young people, so we can teach responsible pet ownership from an early age.

For further information on booking a free workshop just contact us at the store.