A Pig Isn't Flying but She's on the Job at an Airport: A Possible Writing Prompt

I wanted to share this "In the News" story. Perhaps, you can find it of use with your students. If, not, at least it should bring a smile to your face!

There are therapy dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a miniature horse. Now, the San Francisco International Airport has the first-ever therapy PIG. LiLou wears a vest which says, “Pet Me!” and wears different outfits, including a blue tutu and a pilot outfit. Her toe nails are painted, too. A Juliana-breed pig, she is the first pig to join the San Francisco SPCA’s animal-assisted therapy program called the Wag Brigade. Begun in 2013, there are over 300 animals currently "working" the terminals at the airport. The aim is to make passengers less stressed about flying. LiLou doesn’t just walk around the terminal looking for attention. She brings attention to herself not only with her looks but with her tricks. She even can entertain passengers playing her toy piano! She is also housebroken.

Dare I add...passengers are going "hog-wild" over LiLou!

For Students:

1. Write a diary entry pretending they are at the airport and see LiLou. What do they think when you first see her? Describe LiLou. What do you do? Etc.
2. What is a pun? Come up with a pun for this news story.
3. What do you know about pigs? Draw and color a picture of LiLou in your very own outfit. Find 4 facts to share with others about pigs and write them on your drawing.

Gail

Check out my website for teachers and kids.

The photograph is from The State newspaper (and there are other pics, too).