The Badge Archive

Fulfills Step 1 of GSUSA Brownie Pets badge requirements.

Items Needed

• Paper or a large poster board with two overlapping circles (Venn diagram)
• Pre-made cards with facts about pet and human care
• Pencils or markers (for labeling and discussions)

Instructions

1. Set Up the Venn Diagram
   • Label one circle “Pets” and the other “People”.
   • The overlapping section is for similarities between pets and humans.
2. Distribute the Fact Cards
   • Each scout gets a fact card with information about pet care or human care.
   • Scouts take turns reading their card and deciding where to place it on the diagram:
     • Pets Circle (applies only to pets)
     • People Circle (applies only to humans)
     • Middle Section (shared needs)
3. Learn About Three Different Pets
   • After placing all cards, review what different pets need by comparing their cost, space, food, and human interaction.
   • Discuss which pet would be the best fit for different living situations.
4. Reflect on What You Learned
   • Scouts talk about why caring for pets is important and how it’s similar to human needs.
   • Optional: Create new fact cards based on discussions!

Fact Cards for Pet Care Venn Diagram

Pet Care Cards:

• Dogs need yearly vet check-ups, including vaccines, flea prevention, and dental care.
• Cats need regular vet visits, including vaccinations and check-ups for common health issues.
• Fish require clean, filtered water and water treatments to stay healthy.
• Dogs need space to run and play, typically a yard or regular outdoor walks.
• Cats can live indoors but need space to climb and explore in a safe environment.
• Fish need a tank that is at least 5 gallons, but larger species require bigger tanks.
• Caring for a dog costs about $700–$2,500 per year, including food, vet care, and supplies.
• Caring for a cat costs about $500–$1,500 per year, including food, vet care, and litter.
• Caring for fish costs about $100–$500 per year, including food, tank maintenance, and water treatments.
• Dogs need daily human interaction, playtime, and training to stay happy.
• Cats enjoy social time but may also prefer independent play and relaxation.
• Fish do not need human touch but respond to their owners during feeding and tank cleaning.

People Care Cards:

• People need yearly check-ups to stay healthy and prevent illness.
• People live in homes or apartments, not cages or tanks.
• People eat different kinds of food and prepare meals in kitchens.
• People need clean water for drinking, bathing, and cooking.
• Health care costs vary based on doctor visits, medicines, and treatments.
• Some people love being social, while others prefer quiet time alone.
• Children need space to play, just like pets!

Shared Needs Cards (Middle Section):

• Dogs, cats, fish, and people all need food and water to survive.
• All need a safe and clean place to live, whether it’s a house or a properly maintained pet environment.
• Vet visits and doctor check-ups help both pets and people stay healthy.
• Exercise is important for pets and people to stay active and feel good.
• Companionship is valuable for both pets and people, helping with happiness and emotional well-being.