"Give A Hoot About Animals" Writing Contest

Read this winning entry for the "Give A Hoot About Animals" contest! Learn more about the contest here.

Honorable mention, ages 5-8

Marina R., age 8, Helotes, TX 

I Give a

Health of my pets is not a gamblin’ bet. A fish and cat are for me  — I am the owner and that is a big responsibility! My cat’s teeth and fur must be kept clean. My fish bowl is the cleanest one that you have ever seen! 

Only you can make a pet’s dream’s come true- visit an animal shelter to find the perfect pet for you. 

One thing you need to know – a pet is not a toy – it needs love just like a girl or a boy. Love it well and you will receive much joy.   

Touch an animal in a gentle way , and you will have a forever friend each and every day.   

Tip and Madison are the perfect pets for me. It doesn’t matter to them that I stutter. I can practice my speech and they never tell me that I sound funny or hurt my feelings. I wouldn’t trade my pets for anything!