Zoos, testing labs, black markets, destroyed ecosystems, and influential media images should all be presented and examined with a critical eye. This is obviously not appropriate for younger children. Even older students and adults may feel a sense of betrayal once they realize the truth. It is nothing short of horrifying. Just because Ms. Bonanza hasn't perceived any problems with smells or allergies, doesn't mean there aren't any.
Animals emit odors, shed dander, slough skin, and make noise.
This is normal and natural. The larger problem here is that the people to whom the children are entrusted all day are oblivious to it. If we all put our thinking caps on, perhaps we can come up with some alternatives to the constant assault on the dignity of the animal kingdom and its environment. Barbara Ballard Menasha, WI SLJ welcomes letters of up to 400 words for publication online and in the print magazine. They may be edited for clarity and length with the author's permission.