Each year, more than 2 million children in America are bitten by dogs. The Humane Society reports that 51% of dog bite victims are children, with those between the ages of 5 and 9 being most at risk. Surprisingly, many bites come from dogs the child is familiar with, such as the family pet or a neighbor's dog. This highlights the importance of teaching children how to safely interact with dogs.
Teaching Kids How To Properly Meet And Greet A Dog:
Step One: Assess the Situation
Look for Warning Signs: Explain from a safe distance, the child should check for yellow ribbons, patches, or labels indicating "Do Not Pet" or "Please Give Space." If you see these, do not approach the dog and owner.
Step Two: Ask for Permission
Consult an Adult: A child should always ask their parent or accompanying adult if they can approach the dog.
Seek Owner's Approval: a child must calmly approach the dog owner, staying at least 10 feet away, and ask, "May I please pet your dog?" Remember, the owner can say no, and it’s important to respect their decision.
Step Three: Follow Instructions
Listen and Observe: The owner may give specific instructions to the child, like only petting the dog while it sits.
Step Four: Approach Calmly
Maintain Respectful Distance: the child should walk calmly and politely, giving the dog space to move away if needed.
Step Five: Petting The Dog Calmly On The Back
The child should calmly pet the dog on the back. Reaching over top of a dog can be overwhelming to a young, and/or insecure dog. The child should cease petting if the dog appears uncomfortable or unfriendly. A parent should step in if needed.
Step Six: Thank and Depart
Express Gratitude: Say thank you to the owner and walk away calmly.
Important Safety Reminders
Dogs Bite for Various Reasons: Fear, anger, frustration, pain, or protecting something valuable can lead to bites. Watch for signs of stress such as pinned-back ears, whale eye, tucked tail, excessive shedding or drooling, head turning away, trying to walk away, or freezing up.
Adult Supervision Required: a child should never approach a stranger with a dog without an adult present.
Stay Away from Loose Dogs: If a child sees a loose dog, even if familiar, they should not approach. The child should walk away calmly and inform an adult.
Reacting to a Charging Dog: If a dog runs toward a child, teach them to stand still like a tree, avoid eye contact, and cross their arms. A child should never scream or run, as this may provoke an attack.
Respect the Dog’s Space: a child should never reach through fences or car windows to pet a dog.
Giving Treats: Children should always ask the owner's permission before giving a dog a treat, and offer it with a flat hand.
Avoid Disturbing Dogs: a Child should never pet a dog while they are sleeping, eating, or chewing on a bone. If they see a dog with something unsafe in its mouth, they should inform an adult.
By following these guidelines, children can enjoy positive and safe interactions with dogs, reducing the risk of bites and fostering a deeper understanding and respect for our canine friends.
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