Shop Teaches Kids
How To Care For Pets
Florida
Today - May 2008
by Michelle Salyer
COCOA - Starting this month, kids who visit Rainforest
Pet Store in Cocoa Village will get more than just a sneak peek at
exotic pets such as hedgehogs, iguanas and chinchillas.
They'll receive a fun-filled lesson about responsible
pet ownership.
The store will offer a guided tour and "pet chat,"
snack, and craft or coloring activity for kids of all ages and their
parents on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon and Thursdays from 2-4 p.m.
Jo O'Brien, owner of the shop, says she has been
working with kids and parents for years to help them select the right
pet for their lifestyle, but wanted to create a program that really
engages children--and gives moms some quality time with their kids as
well.
"Children are like sponges. What they're taught
now will last a lifetime," said the animal lover, who grew up on a farm
and has been around animals all of her life. "If we can teach
them now how to care for a pet, and the fact that each pet requires
something different in its care, then maybe they'll be a little more
informed and responsible when they're old enough to buy their own
pets."
Visitors in for more than just animal crackers and
crafts--may just make some new friends, such as the store's mascot,
Oscar. The friendly, pizza-loving 4½ foot orange iguana stands
watch from a high corner on top the snake case.
Patrolling on ground level is Boxie, the Florida box
turtle, who slowly makes his way about the store uncaged. Kids
will also learn about caring for other pets, including fish, gerbils,
frogs and snakes while parents enjoy complimentary coffee.
Rainforest Pet Store is located at 216 Florida Ave., at
the corner of State Road 520 and Florida Avenue in Cocoa Village. |