Kids and dogs

Kids and Dogs

 

We all know that pet dogs can be very beneficial to the emotional health of kids, we know that all dogs can bite, and may bite people if provoked, and we all should know that dogs may see as provocation, things we do not. Dogs rarely attack without warning and it is up to people to heed those warnings and remain safe.

 

There is no breed of dog which is completely reliable around kids. This is why young children should never, ever, be left alone with dogs.

 

Dogs act largely on instinct and will react to any situation instinctively. The instinct which can cause aggression can be largely suppressed by proper socialisation, to both people and other dogs, and by at least basic obedience training which will allow control to be exerted over the dog. These are the responsibility of the owner who might also be a parent, and the owner should make sure he takes all his responsibilities seriously.

 

Owners should ensure that dogs are kept calm and not put in fearful situations such as being tormented whilst tied or chained up. The dog cannot escape so instead may act aggressively.

 

Children must be taught to respect dogs and not treat them like toys. Dogs must have a quiet area, a den of their own, away from kids where they can play with their toys.

 

There are things which parents should teach kids to keep them safe and there are things which owners can do to ensure that kids are safe around their dogs, always remembering that parents are often dog owners themselves.

 

 

Things Dog Owners Should Know And Do

 

Socialise your dog properly with both people and other dogs.

 

Give basic obedience training – keeps dog under better control.

 

Spend time with your dog to make him well adjusted – this can be achieved by teaching him tricks and playing games with him.

 

Keep your dog healthy and attend to any health problems which arise such as sore paws, ear infections and injuries, immediately.

 

Never let your dog roam loose.

 

 

Things Parents Should Know And Do

 

Teach kids how to behave properly around animals – no screaming, shouting or running.

 

Teach kids to respect animals as live beings.

 

Never, ever leave a child alone with any dog, no matter how harmless it seems.

 

Never chain a dog in your yard where kids are playing – they may be tempted to tease it.

 

Learn to recognise the signs of an angry dog and then teach them to your kids.

 

Set aside a place for your dog, away from your kids, where he can be quiet.

 

 

Things Kids Should Know And Do

 

Do not approach stray dogs, leave them well alone.

 

Always ask permission to stroke someone else’s dog.

 

Let the dog smell your closed hand before you stroke him.

 

Show respect to dogs, don’t tease. Do not pull ears or tails.

 

Do not startle dogs by rushing up to them.

 

Do not hug dogs – some do not like it.

 

Stay away from chained dogs, they cannot move away if they want to.

 

Do not try to pet dogs that are tied up, sleeping, eating, behind fences or in cars.

 

If a dog growls at you this is a sign that he is not happy about you being there.

Remain calm

Do not shout or scream

Avoid eye contact, look to the side

Stand still for a few moments

Then back away slowly

 

If kids, parents, dog owners and the public in general apply common sense and care the number of accidents involving dogs could be greatly reduced.

 

 

Quotes

 

The dog was created specially for children. He is the god of frolic.

Henry Ward Beecher

 

A dog teaches a boy fidelity, perseverance, and to turn around three times before lying down.

Robert Benchly

 

If you would like to read more you might try these links:

http://www.cbrrescue.org/articles/kids_and_dogs.htm

http://www.animalbehaviour.net/kidspages/dogs/html