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| Protect Kids from Dog Bites
Dogs have been man’s faithful companions throughout the ages, but they can also be a danger to children who are not taught how to behave when approached by a strange dog, or how to treat their own dog with respect. The Humane Society estimates that 4.7 million Americans (adults and children) are bitten by dogs every year, from playful nips to major attacks. Protect your children from being bitten by teaching them some basic dog-safety behavior. These guidelines are written with children in mind, but adults should follow them also!
Young children whose families own pets, or play with the neighbor’s friendly pooch, may assume that all dogs are friendly, and eager to play with them Teach your children to never approach a strange dog, especially one that is running loose. If your child wants to pet a dog being walked by its owner, he should ask the owner’s permission before approaching the dog. Before petting the dog, have the child slowly extend a closed fist toward the dog (a sudden movement may be considered an aggressive move by the dog, and the closed fist will protect the fingers) and let the dog sniff the child first. A strange dog that is tied on a chain or confined behind a fence should never be approached; such dogs become defensive of their territory and may become aggressive if they feel their territory is encroached upon.
If your child is approached by a strange dog running loose, he should never scream and run. It is a dog’s instinct to chase anything that runs. Instruct the child to stand still with his arms at his side, and never look the dog directly in the eyes. Dogs interpret direct eye contact as aggressive behavior. When the dog loses interest, the child should slowly back away until the dog is out of sight. (Never turn your back on a strange dog.) If the child is knocked to the ground by the dog, he should curl up into a ball and cover his ears with his hands, and try not to scream.
Teach your child to read a dog’s body language. A dog that is angry or fearful may bite. An angry dog will be growling and baring his teeth with his tail held stiffly in the air. A frightened dog will be cowering, with his ears folded back and tail tucked between his legs. Never approach a dog exhibiting this behavior; back slowly away, avoiding eye contact.
Be a responsible dog owner. Never teach your dog to chase or attack, even in fun. Playful biting should be discouraged. Many children are harmed by family pets who can’t always distinguish between play and aggression. Large dogs may unintentionally harm children while playing simply because they don’t know their own strength. New puppies instinctually bite when playing, and this behavior can easily be discouraged by offering them a toy to play with when they start nipping. Do this consistently and they will learn to go for the toy instead of your toes!
Do not allow your children to chase or tease dogs, and dogs should be left alone when sleeping, eating, or playing with a toy. Allow the dog to bring his toy to your child if the dog wants to play.
Training classes are an excellent way to socialize your dog and for him to learn acceptable behavior. The owner should go with the dog to learn the techniques and teach them to other family members. Dogs who are used to social situations, strange people, and other dogs are less likely to bite. Many “out–of-control” dogs are taken to animal shelters every year because their owners would not take the time to teach their dog appropriate behavior. This shouldn’t have to happen. Dogs are creatures of instinct and shouldn’t be blamed if they behave like dogs when no one has made the effort to train them properly. If you aren’t sure how your dog will react to a strange situation or unfamiliar person, be cautious. When you have visitor or service men in your home, and the dog tends to overreact, confine him to another room temporarily. You may want to get professional help to accustom your dog to strangers and new situations.
Responsible pet owners will not allow their dog to run loose. They may be a threat to other people as well as coming to harm in the path of a car or open to attack by another dog. Spaying or neutering your dog will reduce its desire to roam and fight with other dogs.
Make the dog part of your family. The unconditional love and devotion of a dog are great rewards. Teach your dog appropriate behavior to reap the benefits!
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