Television Review: Animal Miracles
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What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that gripping, life-threatening scenes
are re-enacted. Although they always have a happy ending
(thanks to the heroic animals), these scenes include fear,
pain, and desperation on the part of the humans and are
presented with such drama that young viewers may be frightened.
Stories about animals that were abandoned and living difficult
lives before being rescued by human owners may also upset
sensitive kids. Still, there's no disputing the unconditional
love and connection between animals and people.
Families can talk about the responsibilities of pet ownership.
Should these responsibilities be shared? How can families
divide them up? For kids interested in learning about careers
working with animals, parents can talk about veterinary
science, becoming an animal technician or trainer, studying
zoology or marine biology, working with animal rescue groups,
and more.
Acts of bravery, stamina, and unconditional love by animals (mostly domestic pets) are replayed in short vignettes on ANIMAL MIRACLES, which is hosted and produced by Alan Thicke ( Growing Pains). The amazing stories presented on the show include cats warning hearing-impaired owners of a fire in their apartment building, dogs following instructions to get help when their owner is trapped, and camels being tamed to become therapeutic hospital visitors.
Some of these tales will be scary for kids under 6, and possibly even older, tender-hearted viewers. By listening to Thicke's introduction for each story, parents will be able to gauge whether or not a particular segment is appropriate for their kids.
That said, the stories' endings are always happy and filled with kisses and hugs. The language is tame, and the moral of the stories is about kindness and connection to furry friends. For kids who like animals, this is a great show to share as long as parents are prepared for a few frightening scenes.
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Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
