*Safety do's and don'ts for pets*

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Pet Talk: Safety do’s and don’ts for pets

• Do not tease a dog or cat. Remember that you do not like to be teased.
• Never touch an unknown dog. Even if you know the dog, always ask permission from the owner first.
• Don’t invade any dog’s space. Let it come to you.
• Dogs do not like to be approached by surprise, from behind or touched on the head. Once they know you are present, pet them under the chin, on their chest or on the back.
• Never stare at a dog’s eyes or put your face close to theirs. Look at them briefly and then look away. This helps them trust you.
• Dogs that are tied up or are behind a fence should be left alone. They feel protective and might become aggressive trying to defend their territory.
• Sleeping dogs or cats might be startled if disturbed and could react aggressively.
• Eating dogs and cats should be left alone. Some are greedy about their food and will growl or bite if they think you are going to take it away.
• Dogs can also be very possessive about bones or other treasured toys.
• Remember that dogs and cats are living creatures and not cuddly toys. Many do not like to be hugged, carried around or played with roughly. Their only defenses are their teeth and claws and they may use them.
• Children can be taught what actions to take if they should be approached by a potentially dangerous dog. Most stray dogs are not dangerous but that can not be known by a child. When a dog’s “prey instincts” are aroused they are more likely to pursue or try to attack. Following are some rules to follow when kids find themselves in an uncomfortable encounter with a dog.
• Do not run from a dog or wave your arms around.
• Try very hard not to scream or cry out. Kids have to practice this drill as it is against all their instincts.
• Avoid eye contact and slowly back away if possible.
• Or remain motionless. Be “still like a tree”.
• In most situations, the dog, will lose interest and go away.
• If a dog comes close, frightens a child or makes bodily contact their best option is to:
• Put something between themselves and the dog like a book bag, bicycle or clothing and then slowly back away to a safe place.
• If knocked over they should roll into a ball, protecting their head with their arms and lie still.
• Be “still like a log” and stay that way until someone comes to help.