Kids and Dogs Safety Tip Sheet
Sheila Blythe-Saucier
Teaching children the do's and don'ts regarding animals is
among one of the most important lessons you'll ever teach them.
Animals are everywhere and though many are domesticated, this
does not automatically make them safe. For example, in the
U.S. alone, 1-2 million dog bites occur annually.
Today many homes are raising children along with the family
dog. Naturally kids delight in hugging, petting, and playing
with their pets. But unfortunately, many children grow up
believing that all dogs are gentle and friendly like their pets,
and commonly fall victim to a dog attack, simply because
they'd never been taught when it's not okay to approach a dog.
Start teaching your children the following safety guidelines
regarding dogs when they are quite young, and continue
reinforcing these precautions frequently.
1. Never run up to a dog.
2. Never attempt to touch a neighbor's dog through a fence.
3. Never touch a dog that is growling, showing his teeth, or
barking hysterically.
4. Young children must never approach dogs without a
grown-up's supervision.
5. Always hold your hand out first and allow the dog to sniff your
hand.
6. Never grab at a dog.
7. Don't approach a dog that is a watch dog protecting his
property.
8. Never attempt to touch a dog that is eating or in possession
of a bone or a treat of some sort.
9. Never hurt the animal by pulling it's tail or fur for example.
10. If the dog is leashed, ask the dog's owner permission to
pet the dog first.
11. Keep your face away from the dog's, when approaching
or playing with them.
12. Don't make loud noises or sudden moves when approaching
a dog. Speak softly to it.
13. If a dog is chasing you, stop running, as this encourages
him to chase you.
14. Avoid eye contact with an aggressive dog, and back
off slowly and non-threateningly.
15. Do not touch, or attempt to touch, the animal's eyes.
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