The Junior Dominion

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 186, 4 May 1929, Page 26

The Junior Dominion

Dear Boys and Girls, — Was there ever a child who had no pct? Every normal child of whatever race, or colour, is born with a love for wild things. So many of you have written to me, describing your pets. One has rabbits, another an opossum, and one a zveka. There seem to be all things, from ponies to white mice. Away back in the beginnings of the world it was fust the same Uncivilised people worshipped animals. They • even called their sons and their tribes after them. “Wolf” was a great fighter. “Deerfoot” was a greater hunter. They knew the companionship of a dog, the pleasure of singing birds, and they respected the aloofness and dignity of the cat. This animal worship is seen in ancient carving and embroidery, particularly of the old Egyptians. The love of wild things is very important in the developing of character. Through the care of pets the sterling qualities of kindness and responsibility are acquired, and the beautiful ways of Nature are observed. Even very small children are taught to love little animals from the time they are given plush owls and little rabbits and bo-bo dogs, and are told that “Mary had a little lamb.” I hope every member of the “Junior Dominion League” has a pct.—KIWI.