The 2014 Animal Essay Contest drew 1,018 contestants this year. Students worked diligently to compose creative, thoughtful essays making this year's competition one of the best yet.
Over 10,500 Arlington third through sixth grade students have participated in the Arlington Animal Essay Contest since it began in 2001. This annual contest stimulates creativity and helps students exercise their writing skills. The theme encourages pet awareness and the development of animal loving, responsible pet owners.
The essays presented antidotes to solving issues of pet overpopulation and ways to help protect pets from homelessness. Many of these youth thoughtfully viewed life from the perspective of a cat or dog, recognizing the animals' perceived wants and needs. Some saw themselves volunteering at the animal shelter and expressed the importance of choosing to adopt when getting a new pet.
Olivia Smith, first place fifth grader winner attending Butler Elementary said:
"We adopted Sasha from the Arlington Animal Shelter last summer" and she "has turned out to be a very energetic and playful dog". Olivia went on to say that Sasha "can be the highlight of her day", and that "One of the most important things is to make sure your pets are spayed or neutered...it's your decision if you want to get another dog, but it might not be your decision if your dog has five or six offspring".
Mayor Cluck presented certificates of award to each essay winner at City Hall at a recognition ceremony on March 3, and Council member Sheri Capehart spoke glowingly of the students as future leaders in the community. The students were also awarded a Kindle Fire HD and a $100 issued in their own savings accounts.
The 12 students were later honored with a reception at the Animal Services Center (ASC), where they each enthusiastically read their winning essays to parents, teachers and shelter volunteers. Afterwards, they were taken on a private behind the scenes tour of the ASC. The peak of their adventure was when they met Mowgli, a pet snake at the center. Students also learned about the operation of the shelter as they experienced the tour. Afterwards, they headed to the Southeast Branch Library where staff patiently gave instructions on downloading EBooks to their new Kindle Fires.
Much appreciation to each and every student that participated in the contest and to community sponsors, Council member Sheri Capehart, Vantage Energy, EECU, Fort Worth Star Telegram and UT Arlington's TRIO Pre-College Program.
Animal Services, News