Here is how the project went:
Our project, Roots of Compassion: Pet Adoption Kits for New Families, was a huge success. We created over 150 handmade dog toys using repurposed, clean old shirts and assembled 70 adoption kits, each including a handmade toy, treats, and a comprehensive guide for new pet owners. The guide provided tips on introducing a pet to their new home, feeding and exercise routines, basic care, and ways to ensure the pet’s well-being while also highlighting responsible and sustainable pet ownership. After assembling the kits, we donated everything, including the 50 leftover toys, to the amazing CAP Shelter in Houston, Texas, where staff said the kits offered both practical support for families and enrichment for the animals
Through this project I/we learned:
Through this project, we learned the importance of combining compassion, creativity, and sustainability to make a meaningful impact. We brought together over 40 students from our school to help organize and assemble resources, seeing how small, thoughtful efforts—like repurposing old shirts into dog toys—can support animals and promote environmental responsibility. We also learned about the practical needs of shelter animals and new pet owners, and how thoughtful guidance and care can improve outcomes for both pets and families.
What I/we might change:
If we did this project again, we might expand outreach earlier to involve even more students and volunteers from our school. We could also collect additional materials for the adoption kits, such as leashes, waste bags and handmade blankets, to make each kit more comprehensive. Finally, we might create a more detailed guide with tips on training and long-term care. In order to ensure new pet owners, feel even better prepared while continuing to emphasize sustainability and responsible adoption practices.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Our favorite part of this project was seeing the excitement and gratitude of the CAP Shelter staff when we delivered the adoption kits and toys. It was incredibly rewarding to watch our handmade items and efforts make a real difference for the animals and the families adopting them. We also loved working together with over 40 students from our school, collaborating, creating, and learning how teamwork and creativity can have a meaningful impact on our community.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
For anyone interested in doing a project like ours, start early and recruit lots of helpers—having over 40 students from our school made assembling kits much faster and more fun. Repurpose materials whenever possible, like using old, clean shirts for dog toys—it’s sustainable and cost-effective. Make a clear, simple guide for new pet owners; even small tips can make a big difference. Finally, to remember to always celebrate the small wins, seeing happy animals and smiling families is so incredibly rewarding.
