Besides the pool and the beach, summertime is the time for
dog bites. The hot weather combined with active get-togethers create the
perfect combination for accidents waiting to happen in the form of dog
bites.
Naturally, children are more prone to being bitten by dogs,
largely because due to age or ignorance, not all of them know the proper way to
behave around dogs.
Below are 10 tips you and your children must know about
approaching and playing with dogs, especially in the summertime.
1. Dogs get overheated and cranky...just like us.
Sometimes they need to not be around people. Pet owners can
do them a favor and keep them away from people during family get-togethers and
barbecues.
2. Supervision, supervision, supervision!
Kids, particularly younger children, need to be watched when
playing with dogs. Babies and toddlers don’t always know that a dog is not a
toy.
3. Never approach unfamiliar dogs.
One can never tell if a dog is friendly or not, so children
should learn from an early age not to approach a dog they do not know.
4. Monitor hugs and cuddles.
A child may look like he is trying to show his love for a dog
but the pooch may interpret that affection as harmful and protect himself.
5. Do not go after a dog who does not want to be around
you.
If the dog retreats to her bed, let her be. Teach your
children to let the dog have some peace.
6. Never hit, kick, punch, or tease a dog.
From babyhood, children need to be taught how to treat a
dog. It is anything but fun for them and that behavior will surely provoke even
the kindest of dogs to lash out.
7. Never approach a sleeping dog.
It’s best for children to let sleeping dogs lie, in this
case.
8. Never blow in the face of a dog or stare at them very
close up.
This behavior may provoke them, and you don’t want to chance
that.
9. Never take a dog’s food or treats away.
Children should never take treats away, as this could cause
the dog to become aggressive.
10. Give them some (quiet, cool) space.
Sometimes, the absolute best thing a pet owner can do is
place their dog in an air conditioned room by himself during parties. This
especially applies to senior dogs who cannot handle the noise and chaos.
Image: Imgur