Duke's Dog Safety for Kids Program
We are available to come to your school or group and teach our Duke's Dog Safety for Kids Program. There is no charge for this program. This is provided as a community service. For more information contact us at linda@aaapetcarepros.com or call 618-482-8680.
The other day I took my dog to the vet. They were very busy that day so we had to wait a while in a crowded waiting room. While I waited, a young girl who was there with her dad and her pet made the rounds to all the other animals. She petted them without asking permission, hugged them when she could and stuck her face in all their faces. No one said anything to her. If this girl's behavior continues she is a prime candidate to be bit by a dog. Why?
Dogs are wonderful pets and companions when both dogs and people are properly trained. Ignorance of dog behavior can lead to a tragic event. Learn how to prevent dog bites and make sure your kids know how be safe around dogs.
Don't take a kid's safety for granted when it comes to any dog!! Most dog bite victims are children and most dog bites occur in the home and with the family dog.
Dogs tend to view kids as equals and may treat them differently than adults. Kids tend to be noisy and fast moving and as a result cause a dog to fear or become excited. Kids tend not to use good judgment around dogs and will do things that hurt or upset a dog such as kicking at a dog, pulling a dog's tail, trying to take a toy away from a dog, etc.
Because of a kid's size and activity, dogs many times will bite them on the face, head and neck which can result in serious injury. Kids under 15 years of age are the largest risk group for being bitten.
If you own a dog, do not keep him chained up or tied outdoors. Dogs are pack animals and they need to be treated as part of the family. In many communities, this is now against the law. Dogs left chained or tied up become non-social and aggressive.
Unless you intend to breed your dog, have it neutered. Neuthered dogs tend to be less aggressive and easier to work with.
Attend dog training classes and if your child(ren) are age 6 or older bring them with you. Learn basic dog behavior and care and teach your children to lovingly care for your dog.
Do not leave children alone with your dog or any pet. Things can and do happen.
Teach Your Kids the following:
Meeting A Strange Dog - A*S*D*S*N
ASK - always ask the owner first if you can pet the dog. If there is no owner around DO NOT approach the dog.
STILL - always remain still when approaching a dog. Do not talk. Do not yell. Do not shout. Do not make any loud noises. All these can excite or scare a dog.
DON'T STARE - Never stare at a dog. Dogs stare as challenges or threats.
SLOW - always approach a dog slowly. Never run up to a dog.
NECK - scratch the dog on the neck. Never pet the top of his head. Reaching above the dog's head might scare him.
When NEVER to pet a dog
Dog on chain or tied up
Dog behind fence
Dog eating
Dog playing with a toy
Dog sleeping
Dog with puppies
Dog sick or hurt
Dog growling
Dog barking
Dog in car
Dog in cage or carrier
Dog foaming at mouth
Dogs meeting one another
Dog is backing up
Dog looks mean or afraid
NEVER:
Chase a dog
Run from a dog
Put your face in a dog's face
Kiss a dog
Hug a dog
Pat a dog on the head
Pull a dog's tail or ears
Lay on a dog
Step on a dog
Kick a dog or kick at a dog
Hit a dog
Throw something at a dog
Yell at a dog
Scream at a dog
Run up to a dog
Sneak up on a dog
Scare a dog
Swing your hands and arms at a dog
Try to break up a dog fight
Stare at a dog
ALWAYS
Be KIND
Ask permission to pet a dog or give a dog a treat
When giving a treat, throw it on the ground instead of handing it to the dog
Stay calm
Stay still
Stay quiet
Let the dog see you - don't hide or walk up behind him or at his side
Listen to see if the dog is growling or barking - don't approach
Watch to see if the dog is relaxed or stiff - don't approach if stiff
Watch to see what his tail is doing - is it wagging but relaxed or is it between his legs or standing straight up (don't approach.)
Watch to see if the hair on his back is raised - don't approach
Obey an adult when they tell you not to go near a dog
Let a dog smell you
When you are given permission to pet a dog, offer him your fist to smell. Do not reach out to him with you hand open.