BROWNIE groups are being offered free workshops from Launceston’s Pets at Home store to help them gain their ‘Friend to Animals’ badge.

Young people are able to attend these workshops, which have been especially set up for Brownies groups.

At Launceston’s Pets at Home store the Brownies will receive advice from trained in-store colleagues on how to care for pets responsibly.

Each young person will receive a free workbook, which they can use to help them record the advice they receive — this has been created with the Brownie badge requirements in mind.

In order to receive their badge Brownies must learn about the five welfare needs of animals: shelter, food and water, good health, appropriate company and the right living environment.

They will also need to learn how to care for small animals, for example fish or insects, and understand the correct types, varieties and quantities of food they require.

They will also be able to find out about the right types of habitat for the animals they meet, where they sleep and how they can ensure the animal gets the appropriate level of exercise.

In addition they will learn how to keep animals healthy and recognise common illnesses.

Craig Jerram, store manager at Launceston’s Pets at Home store, said: “Our friendly colleagues are always happy to share their extensive knowledge of pet care.

“The free workshops and workbooks will help local Brownies find out all the information they need to achieve some of their badge activity tasks, teaching them how to care for pets responsibly.”

To obtain the badge, Brownies must complete a number of tasks, which can include making an informative poster about their favourite pet, helping a pet charity, or creating a quiz about endangered animals.

For more information on booking a free workshop contact manager of the Launceston store Craig Jerram on 01566 776855 or by visiting www.petsathome.com/shop/en/pets/store-locations