P PoemssoKids (NAPSA)—When it comes to describing the rewarding relationship between pets and their own- ers, sometimes a poem just says it best. Recently, six poems summed up that sentiment so well that they won the American Pet Products Association’s (APPA) 2nd Annual National Children’s Pet Poetry Contest. Through the APPA’s Pets Add Life (PAL) campaign, third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students were invited to write and submit a unique and creative poem about their pets. Two students from each grade were selected to win a $250 gift certificate for pet products, and a “byline” in a nationally circulated publication. In addition, the six winning students’ classrooms each received a $1,000 scholarship to spend on pet-related education. Poems were judged on creativity, clarity, voice and the student’s ability to reinforce the message of the joys and benefits of pet ownership. The panel of judges consisted of teachers, elementary school administration and APPA. Here is one of the winning poems, in thefifth-grade category: “My Dog, Bear” by Spring from Lincoln, Del. WhenI think of you, Myheart shines bright, Just like a Babybird’sfirst flight. First thing in the morning Your nose I see, An inch from my nose Tickles me. When you knowI’m leaving, Your head hangs low. It breaks myheart, ’Cause I love you so. Third-, fourth- and fifth-grade stu- dents were invited to submit a poem about their pets and why they love them. And even though I’m angry, When you chew my shoe, Your sorrowful eyes Make meforgive you. Whenmysister died, You comforted me. You miss her too— It’s plain to see. When I’m lonely, Or I need a friend, You’re alwaysthere, Your love to lend. IT love you Bear, Myadorable dog. You’ve helped me Through my ownfog. No other dog Compares to you. Taking care of me, You'll always do. To see other poems and for more information about APPA’s 3rd Annual National Children’s Pet Poetry Contest, you can visit www.petsaddlife.org.
