Since 1990, Brant has always had a golden retriever as a greeter. We started with Drummer, a dog that had such a reputation that Burlington became home to many “Drummers” as parents chose a similar pet for their own home! Today, we have Digby and Phoebe.
Brant feels that it’s important to have resident dogs.
Not every home has a family pet. Yet, most children love dogs, and Digby and Phoebe fill the vacuum for these children. Many will not leave for home without giving a pat and a “good bye” to the two pups.
Digby and Phoebe provide opportunities for teaching children to respect animals.
There is much research to indicate the importance of animals in children’s lives. The Goldens are great therapy for a child not feeling well.
Brant is a Roots & Shoots organization. This means that we believe in the objectives of Jane Goodall’s world-wide Roots & Shoots Institute. The goals of Roots & Shoots is to teach children CARE and COMPASSION for the ENVIRONMENT, ANIMALS, and the COMMUNITY. Digby and Phoebe are important to Brant in implementing this program.
You can find great resources on animal and human interaction from the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) website. This organization, and other SPCAs, offer child and youth education, classroom visits and pet encounter therapy programs.