"Not only dogs, but also prey animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits can offer powerful educational experiences" 

 

Maria's journey: a heart for little ones and gentle paws

I’m Maria Laura Murgia, the founder of Gentle Paws Education. Originally from Italy, I moved to Canada in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the country.

I facilitate animal-assisted educational activities in French 🇫🇷, working with children in community and educational settings.

I bring years of professional experience from licensed childcare centres, early learning programs, and family-based environments.

My work focuses on creating safe, respectful, and engaging learning experiences that support curiosity, empathy, and positive interactions.

I have professional training and diploma in early childhood education and animal-assisted intervention and pedagogical activities with guinea pigs, and I am currently continuing my studies in animal-assisted intervention at Michigan University.

 

 

“Play, observe, respect – and everything else falls into place "

"Small interactions with animals can impact significant life lessons" 

 

Special friends 

 

Maria's journey: a heart for little ones and gentle paws

“Meet my chillest guinea pig, Rocky! 🐹

“Rocky is one of the animal friends you may meet at Gentle Paws Education. 🐹

This chill guinea pig loves spending calm moments with children, helping them practice observation, curiosity, and respect for animal boundaries. Rocky lives freely with Lucky, our dog, and they share a beautiful bond, they are truly best friends

Rocky will participates at his own pace and takes breaks whenever he needs them, because animal well-being always comes first.”

Maria, founder of Gentle Paws Education