Dogs & Kids

Keep kids and dogs safe around each other!

Over TWO MILLION children are bitten by dogs each year, with children between 5 and 9 years of age at biggest risk! A significant percentage of child bite victims requirement medical treatment 26% require hospitalization. The majority of these incidents occur in the home or private yard by family pets.

Here are our Top 10 tips for keeping everyone safe!

1. Most dogs do not liked to be hugged, kissed, tickled or petted on their head. Do not allow kids to get in a dog’s face.
2. Teach children to pet dogs on their body. Do not allow kids to pull a dog’s ears, tail or (for long-haired dogs) their hair.
3. Supervise all kid and dog interactions! Kids and dogs should not be left alone together.
4. Dogs that are sick or injured are more likely to bite as they may not feel well and/or in pain. These dogs should be kept separate from kids until they feel better.
5. Kids should not interfere with dogs eating or involved with mealtime preparation.
6. Kids should not interfere with a dog while he is sleeping or in a crate.
7. Kids should not be allowed to take a dog’s bones or toys away.
8. Some dogs do not like small children as their actions and sounds are erratic and high-pitched. Dogs should not be forced to interact with anyone (children or adult) that concerns them.
9. There are many ways to include children in a dog’s training but they are not responsible enough to be a dog’s primary trainer.
10. Children should not run around dogs — this can cause a dog to become excited and may jump and/or nip at what is running past him.

Still need help? Contact us!