What better way to show our four legged companions that we care than special handmade gifts to keep them warm, fed and stylish.

Up to 90 students from Elizabeth Grove and Elizabeth Vale primary schools have made hundreds of gifts for pets currently in temporary foster as part of Council’s Playford 10 Kindness in Action project.

It was student Sienna’s first time volunteering and found the experience “very exciting”.

“It makes me feel really happy and generous,” Sienna said. “It’s important to help dogs in foster because it makes them feel equal and they deserve a lot of love,” she said.

Student Nargis agreed and said it was important as animals deserved treats too.

“We have been making them things so they are warm, have something to use while they are eating, and some things for them to wear,” Nargis said.

The students made blankets and bandanas, as well as designed placemats and food bowls.

Wise beyond her years, student Hopeness said it was important to help others because “you never know what’s going to happen in life”.

“Maybe one day you’ll become the manager of a company helping animals in shelters,” Hopeness said.

And that’s exactly what founder of Safe Pets Safe Families, Jennifer Howard, has done.

Jennifer has established a not-for-profit charity, providing support to pet owners in South Australia facing disadvantage or crisis.

She said it meant a lot for the families who couldn’t temporarily care for their pets due to personal circumstances.

“I think the dogs will love those blankets, they look so cosy and comfy, and they will have a good sniff at the placements, as well as look very smart wearing the bandanas,” Jennifer said. “It will bring families so much joy to have gifts when animals return home. “It will show them that there is a whole community that cares.”

The Kindness in Action program has been running for four years with an aim to engage children in volunteering opportunities while developing skills in creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, confidence and social skills.