Whether it’s the cherished family pet or encounters with furry friends during outings, dogs and children often cross paths. Even if your family doesn’t have a canine companion, it’s essential to equip your child with basic safety guidelines when interacting with dogs. In this health blog, we explore expert advice on dog safety for kids, tailored for an Indian audience.
Understanding the Basics
Aimee Hoflander, a staff educator, emphasizes that parents must grasp basic dog safety boundaries. Simple rules include seeking permission from the handler before approaching a dog and petting in the direction from shoulder to tail. Speaking in a low voice and avoiding dogs while carrying food are crucial pointers.
Teaching Children Boundaries
For children, the golden rule is understanding and respecting the dog’s cues. Amanda Farah, a national training coordinator, advises parents to teach kids that if a dog signals ‘no,’ they should engage with something else. Encouraging children to invite dogs into their space rather than approaching the dog helps establish safer interactions.
Starting Early
Jennifer Shryock, founder of Family Paws Parent Education, suggests initiating boundary lessons as early as six months. By narrating a dog’s actions, parents can guide children on why approaching unfamiliar dogs is a no-go. For babies, close supervision is essential, especially as they may grab a dog’s hair unintentionally.
Modeling Safe Behavior
Modeling plays a pivotal role in teaching children safe behavior around dogs. Amanda Farah advises parents to reinforce good behavior by explaining that unfamiliar dogs are like strangers, and respecting their space is crucial. Narrating and dictating the child’s actions can help in shaping safe interactions.
Playing ‘Doggie Detectives’
Jennifer Shryock introduces the concept of ‘doggie detectives’ to encourage children to observe a dog’s body language. By looking at the ears, eyes, tail, and muzzle, kids can discern a dog’s feelings. This interactive approach helps children understand when a dog is open to interaction and when they prefer space.
Special Rules for Service Dogs
Highlighting the importance of service dogs, experts suggest teaching children to recognize special signals like vests or tags. Understanding that service dogs have unique jobs and should not be disturbed is crucial. This instills respect for the vital role these dogs play in assisting people with disabilities.
Supervision Before Age 4
Experts recommend close supervision until the age of 4 when most children develop essential skills of self-control and empathy. Before this age, toddlers can be unpredictable, making guided interactions necessary for everyone’s safety. Parents should guide interactions until children can reliably follow directions.
In conclusion, fostering a positive relationship between children and dogs involves imparting fundamental safety guidelines and instilling respect for our four-legged friends. By starting early, modeling safe behavior, and playing ‘doggie detectives,’ parents can ensure a harmonious coexistence between their little ones and the canine companions they encounter.
