A Teacher's Guide to Having Classroom Pets

You may be eligible for a grant!

If you’re a K-8 teacher in public or private school, you may be eligible for a grant to cover the cost of a classroom fish, small reptile or small mammal through Pets in the Classroom! Apply for the grant here.

Fun facts about Guinea pigs

• Guinea pigs jump up and down when they’re happy — it’s called “popcorning”!
• They’re sensitive to loud noises, so remind students to speak softly around their new fuzzy classmate.
• Guinea pigs need Vitamin C supplements to stay healthy.

Fun facts about goldfish

• Goldfish have been kept as pets for thousands of years, since the time of ancient China.
• They never close their eyes; meaning goldfish can sleep with their eyes open!
• Goldfish can see infrared and ultraviolet light — spectrums that we can’t see.

Fun facts about bearded dragons

• Bearded dragons — beardies — come from Australia.
• When they bob their heads, it means they’re feeling territorial.
• They sometimes wave their arms as though saying hello.