A college teacher has taken the innovative step of bringing animals such as a golden retriever, an iguana and even spiders to his class in Dalian, Liaoning province, to educate his students about rearing pets.

"This type of snake is not a protected species. It could be a good pet," Zhang Meng told his students while holding a corn snake.

Zhang teaches molecular biology at the Dalian Maritime University. He decided to offer the innovative course to raise awareness and appreciation of pets.

"Increasing numbers of urban residents are raising pets in China. However, few know how to look after them properly," said Zhang, who aims to address misconceptions and improve awareness about the correct treatment of pets.

Some 380 students applied for the course, so 120 were selected by drawing lots.

"It is fun," said Qi Fengshi, one of the 120 lucky students who can get full credit for the course while playing with animals in the class.

"I'm always late for other classes, but this one is an exception," he said.

Many other students choose to attend the class, although they will not get any credit. Some even come from a neighboring university.

Zhang designed the teaching program himself. He also invites seasoned pet owners to bring their animals to the class to share interesting stories and practical tips on raising pets.

The course has also attracted admirers on social-media platforms like Weibo and WeChat.

"Such innovative courses should be encouraged," a Weibo user called Illusion and Reality said in a post.

Others suggested Zhang should teach the course online so more pet lovers can learn how to look after their animals.

Zhang said he is planning to launch an online course with support from the university.

"We'll make an effort to meet the demand of more students," he said.

Zhang is also cooperating with pet associations and hospitals to offer more professional training to his students.

"It would be wonderful if, as well as appreciating animals, they could also volunteer to help pets in some occasions," Zhang said.