By BRIAN GRAVES

First graders at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School got a briefing of sorts on the care of pets as they prepare to come up with some ways of their own.

The class of Emily Bordelo was recently awarded a $750 grant that will allow the students to bring their creativity to life and help the homeless animals of Pearl River County.

“The students here will brainstorm ideas for treats, toys, blankets and other ways to care for the animals at the SPCA Animal Shelter,” Bordelo said.

Maria Diamond and Jerry Billiot from the SPCA visited the class to give the students a basics lesson in caring for dogs and cats, accompanied by their friend, Lafayette the dog.

Diamond told the students pets need water, food, exercise, training, shelter and veterinary care.

“Dogs need baths,” Diamomd said. “But I bet what you don’t know is cats have a deodorant in their saliva. That’s why they don’t need them as often and smell good.”

The SPCA members also described how to meet a dog including asking for permission, letting the dog smell your fist, and then gently petting the dog.

Lafayette allowed himself to be one the students enthusiastically lined up to try out the method.

Diamond also told the students they should stay still should a dog seem mean and run after them.

“You never run because dogs like to chase things,” she said. “Just stand there like a pole.”

All of the students were given the chance to share their pet stories with Diamond and Billiot at the end of the class.

Bordelow said the students will start their projects very soon, and a class trip to the SPCA is also on their calendar as they learn more about the care of pets.