Five Questions About Animals With Fred Penner

Hey readers,

When Fred Penner found out a beagle (also named Fred Penner!) was in need of a home, he spread the word on social media. We are happy to report Fred Penner the dog has been adopted.

In celebration of Pet Month, we caught up with the beloved children’s entertainer to talk about the importance of animals in our lives and his music.

It’s great news that Fred Penner the beagle has found a home! How did you feel when you first saw the advertisement for Fred Penner the dog to be adopted?

Over the years, I’ve known people who’ve named their animals Fred, but never anyone who gave their pet my full name. Seeing Fred Penner the beagle was a surprise, and I was excited to learn that around 20 people called in to adopt him. I thought that was wonderful, how beautiful for people to do that.

Did you have any pets growing up?

My family had birds, a budgie named Peter, and when I was about 10 years old, we had a couple of chickens. Over the years, we had lots of cats and a couple of dogs. We had many pets in our world.

Fred Penner the beagle – photo courtesy of Sympathetic Ear Animal Rescue Society

You have many songs that are about animals (one of my favourites is about a cat!). How have animals influenced your music?

Along with “The Cat Came Back,” “Poco,” and “Little White Duck,” there have been many songs I’ve done over the years not just about pets, but about animals. I like observing how animals move throughout the world and listening to the sounds they make. I love watching animals because they have things to teach us about focus, energy, and concentration. When you’re caring for an animal, you have to pay attention.

What is your favourite animal?

I love dogs and I love cats, especially their aloof quality. Cats are their own individuals and will do what they want, when they want to. You just have to provide them with food, water, and a litter box, and they’re ready to crawl into your lap and give you warmth and affection.

Do you have any advice for kids who want to adopt a pet?

Animals might be really cute and cuddly when they’re small, but they require lots of care. It’s really up to the parents and the whole family to take on that responsibility. When you do have a pet, learn how to take care of that animal to the best of your ability because they are relying on you and only you.

Pets are an important part of our lives. They teach us love, responsibility, and how to care for one other. I think we learn many important lessons when we have a pet to take care of, whether it’s a rescued animal or from a litter in the neighbourhood. Animals need love as much as anybody.

Thanks so much, Fred!

To learn more about Fred Penner and hear about his upcoming events, be sure to visit fredpenner.com.

-Jenna, chirpblog@owlkids.com

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.