08/08/2026
HOW I SET UP ANIMAL WELFARE EDUCATION STALL FOR KIDS AND THE PUBLIC
By Chiemeka Chiedozie
One of the ways I’ve been working to build compassion for animals in Nigeria is by setting up interactive education stalls where kids, parents, and the general public can see, learn, and connect with animals in a positive way.
The goal is simple: help people, especially children, develop love, empathy, and respect for animals — and understand that animals are not for abuse, but for care.
1. THE VISION
Many cases of animal abuse come from ignorance. People beat dogs, neglect pets, or harm wildlife and farm animals because they were never taught another way.
So I decided to bring animal welfare education directly to the people — in schools, markets, and community events — through a hands-on display stall.
2. HOW THE STALL WAS SET UP
Location: Schools, community centers, and public events in Lagos and surrounding areas
Setup:
- A table and banner with the message: _“Animals Deserve Love, Care, and a Voice”
- Printed materials, posters, and visual aids for people to take home
- Pictures and infographics of companion animals, farm animals, wildlife, and marine animals
- A calm space where people can ask questions, share concerns, and learn without judgment
The focus is not to shame people, but to teach with love, facts, and compassion.
3. RESOURCES USED
I pulled together free educational resources from leading animal welfare organizations around the world and adapted them for Nigeria:
1. Animal Aid UK - Posters and leaflets on humane treatment and alternatives to cruelty
2. PETA - People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals - Kid-friendly materials on compassion and responsible pet care
3. VIVA - Vegetarian International Voice for Animals - Information on animal farming and kindness to farm animals
4. Animal Defenders International - ADI - Materials on wildlife protection and the effects of animal abuse
5. ANAW - Africa Network For Animal Welfare - Africa-focused guides on community animal welfare and local laws
6. IFAW - International Fund for Animal Welfare - Global resources on wildlife rescue, disaster response for animals, and community-based conservation education
7. Greyton Farm Animal Sanctuary, South Africa - Resources and stories on farm animal rescue, rehabilitation, and giving farm animals a dignified life
8. Planet Ocean, France- Educational materials on marine life, ocean protection, and the connection between healthy oceans and animal welfare
9. Animal Save Movement, Canada - Global campaign materials on bearing witness, plant-based compassion, and standing up for all animals
10. Pepino Projects - Educational tools for children on empathy and animal care
These materials are printed, laminated, and displayed. We also use videos and infographics from these organizations during our talks to make the lessons visual and engaging for both kids and adults.
4. WHAT HAPPENS AT THE STALL
1. For Kids: Storytelling, picture sessions of rescued animals, and teaching “The 5 Freedoms of Animals.” Kids learn how to approach dogs safely, how to care for pets, and why we must protect animals on land, in the sea, and in the wild.
2. For Adults: Discussions on responsible pet ownership, animal cruelty laws in Nigeria, wildlife protection, farm animal welfare, and ocean conservation. IFAW materials help us talk about protecting wildlife and animals during emergencies.
3. For the Community: The stall becomes a safe place to report cases, get advice, and learn about help available.
5. THE IMPACT SO FAR
- Children who feared dogs are now asking how to care for them
- Students are asking questions about protecting turtles, dolphins, elephants, and ocean animals
- Young people are connecting with Animal Save Movement messages about compassion for farm animals
- Parents are asking for vet and feeding tips instead of resorting to punishment
- Community members are starting to call and report abuse
- Schools are inviting us back for more animal and environmental welfare talks.
