MAY I PLEASE PET YOUR DOG?

 

Parents protect your children from dog bites. Never leave your child alone with a dog, even for a few minutes. Teach your children to be careful around dogs. Practice guidelines for children are listed below so your child will react properly when confronted with a dog.

 

Some rules for children (and for adults, too!).

   ●Always ask permission for the dog’s owner before you pet the dog.

      Why? Not all dogs like kids and the owner can tell you whether he does or not. Plus if you ask first, the owner can have the dog behave himself so that the dog doesn’t jump on you. This last tip is especially important for Wheaten families as we all know they can jump.

   ●When introduced to a dog, let the dog sniff and lick your hand before you reach out to pet him.

       Why? If he sniffs your hand first, you know that he’s seen you and is aware of you. If you reach out to pet him before he sniffs you, you may startle him. A good rule is to make a fist and let the dog sniff your fist. The child is less likely to poke the dog then and no fingers are dangling in the dogs face.

   ●When petting a dog, never grab the dog’s head or try to hug him around the neck.

       Why? Most dogs think this could be an attack, especially if someone other than their owner tries to do it. Instead, simply pet him on the shoulders, or scratch behind an ear.

   ●Never, ever reach through a fence to pet a dog, even if this is a dog you know.

       Why? Dogs protect their property and when you reach through the fence that could be considered trespassing. Plus, the dog may want you to come and play and may grab your hand to keep you there.

   ●Never bother a dog while he’s eating or chewing on a bone.

       Why? He may think you’re trying to steal his food or bone!

   ●Never bother a mother dog and her puppies.

       Why? She will want to protect her puppies and may think you will hurt them.

   ●Don’t wake up a sleeping dog.

       Why? If he’s sleeping soundly you may startle him awake. He may bite because he’s startled.

   ●Never, ever poke a dog in the eyes or ears, pull his tail, sit on him, jump on him, or do anything else that will hurt him,

       Why? Those things hurt and a hurt dog may bite to defend himself.

   ●If a strange dog approaches you on the street, stand still, don’t look him in the eye and don’t run away. Cross your hands across your chest and pretend you are a tree.

       Why? A strange dog may not be friendly, so it’s best to assume he