The Animal Connection

Animal Protection New Mexico (APNM) believes in the link between kindness to animals and developing nurturing relationships with others. The Animal Connection addresses this correlation through video lessons and activities that engage students to build empathy and concern for peers, families, and the community.
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Program at a Glance

Animal Protection New Mexico’s online humane education curriculum takes two forms: The Animal Connection, Jr., a 3-lesson course designed for Pre-K through 2nd grade, and The Animal Connection, a 10-lesson course for grades 3-8. Both programs can be adapted for all abilities at the teacher's discretion.
 Click on the video to learn more about the courses.

Benefits of The Animal Connection

The Animal Connection online courses bring APNM’s in-person humane education lessons to your classroom. 
Your students will learn:

Humane Stewardship
 of Animals

The lessons and activities promote and raise awareness about the humane stewardship of animals.

Acceptance of Responsibility

The suggested activities and exercises introduce students to becoming responsible guardians and advocates for animals' welfare.

Compassion
& Empathy for Others

One important result of the lessons is a proven development of kindness and concern for others. 
Animal Protection New Mexico (APNM) offers New Mexico educators
the chance to use The Animal Connection curriculum online at no cost.

Testimonials

New Mexico Teachers Love
The Animal Connection

“The duration and quality of this program are sure to leave a lasting impression on my students. Many have never known a properly cared for animal. And now they have a reference point for the rest of their lives.”
- 4th Grade Teacher
“The Animal Connection has made a huge impact on my class. They learned about what causes a person to be a bully and have openly discussed episodes of bullying that have taken place within my own class! They have taken this to heart and treat each other with more kindness.”
- 5th Grade Teacher
“The Animal Connection program engaged my students in topics that are rarely discussed in a school setting. By talking about animals and the neglect and abuse some experience, my students developed compassion for those that are innocent and vulnerable…even classmates.”
- 6th Grade Teacher

New Mexico Parents Also Love
The Animal Connection

“Isiah has spoken a great deal to us about The Animal Connection program. He was most concerned about why shelters become overcrowded. He gets... spaying and neutering. I am so thankful Isiah gets to be part of learning the true meaning of taking care of animals and the responsibilities animals come with. We feel this is a fantastic program.”
- Parent of a 4th Grade Student
“Before this program, it was always mom and dad feeding the dog. Our son now realizes how much it takes to take care of an animal. He has taken over feeding, watering, and walking the dog. We appreciate this program as our son has been more involved all around.”
- Parent of a 5th Grade Student
“On Animal Connection days, Kelly always came home with a wealth of knowledge and proudly shared all she had learned about animals. When small, she always said she wanted to be a veterinarian. As a 5th grader, she became more interested in being a video game developer. The Animal Connection renewed her passion for animals and hopes to be a veterinarian. This is a great program to have in our schools.”
- Parent of a 6th Grade Student

Interested in Our Curricula?

The Animal Connection and The Animal Connection Jr. courses satisfy New Mexico Public Education Department’s Core Standards.

Need Help? The Animal Connection
is here for you. 

Have questions? Need help with the online lessons? Have ideas on how to use our program at your school?
Our Humane Education Virtual Program Manager will be there for you every step of the way. 

What I will do to help:

  • Onboarding and enrollment in the courses
  • Personalized 1-on-1 training
  • Assistance customizing your course

César Díaz

Humane Education Virtual Program Manager
Animal Protection New Mexico

Thank you to The Animal Connection sponsors:

  • The Bonner Family of Albuquerque
  • Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation
  • Meisje's Fund
  • Nusenda Credit Union Foundation