My last post dealt with what to do if one gets bitten by a dog. This post will focus on how to avoid getting into that situation, Dr.L Here are some good tips to keep pups and kids safe and to head off dangerous situations. Compliments of DVM 360 contributor Adam Oliver Theres nothing cuter than a child with a puppy. Its enough to warm your heart. But what happens when a dog doesnt want to play? The dog might bite—and even end up euthanized from an easily avoidable situation. With a little education, you can protect people and pets. Many pet owners suffer the misconception that their pet would never bite a child. Bottom line: Any dog can bite.Children, by nature, are graspers. They grab a hold of anything and everything. This may also include a dogs face and ears. While some dogs tolerate this behavior, some wont. We must teach both the dog and the child certain rules and guidelines to follow to avoid this disaster from occurring. Parents need to teach their children not to grab dogs ears or face, but instead to pet their sides and abdomen. Most dogs prefer a belly rub over anything else in the world. Second, people should teach their children not to interrupt a dog. If a dog is sleeping, eating or protecting something, they are more likely to bite than a dog who approaches you on their own. Parents also need to supervise their children. Family pets need training, and if children are old enough they can help with training. Its also a good idea to teach kids proper ways to interact with the pet and things they should avoid. Also parents must try to create an environment for pets where the pets feel comfortable and avoid situations where pets feel trapped. Its a good idea to create a comfortable place for the dog to go, whether its a crate, another room or outside. Accidents will happen. But responsible parents and pet owners can reduce these accidents. Its our responsibility, both for the child and for the pet, to create an environment where both can be comfortable.
Posted on: Fri, 23 May 2014 15:09:20 +0000
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