TWO St Bernard dogs helped get the message of responsible pet care across to primary school pupils yesterday.

The session was part of a pet and plant awareness program throughout the term for Prep, grade 1 and grade two pupils from St Patrick's Primary School in Gordon and St Michael's Primary School in Springbank.

Veterinarian Ruth Gore said pupils learnt about obedience, immunisation and exercise for pets in the program.

"Children need to learn that pets are not toys, they are living, breathing animals," she said.

Ms Gore said the message was particularly important in the lead up to Christmas.

"We see so many abandoned pets after Christmas, but if children learn to respect them they will be less likely to treat them badly," she said.

St Patrick's teacher Mary Kennedy said the pupils had enjoyed the sessions.

"They're country kids so most of them have pets and this helps them learn about responsible pet care," she said.