Child Safety
This Child Safety Guide is provided for informational purposes only. Children should always be properly supervised when they are around animals.
Below are some tips for interacting with dogs. You should follow these tips whether you are around your family pet or dogs you do not know. Dogs cannot speak to alert you of their discomfort so they may groan, growl, bark, and even bite when startled, uncomfortable, hurt, or injured. Following this Guide is one of many ways to help yourself avoid adverse reactions from the dogs you interact with.
Child Safety when Interacting with Dogs
- Never run up quickly to a dog as this can startle the dog and they may interpret you as a threat. As a defense, the dog may lash out and scratch or bite you. Teach children to approach dogs calmly, slowly, and quietly. Allow the dog to acknowledge your presence and sniff you.
- Never attempt to touch or pet a dog through a fence. Some dogs have “barrier sensitivity” and will try to protect what they deem as their safe-zone. Also, NEVER tease or antagonize a dog through a fence. Additionally, never fake-bark or “run the fence-line” with a dog on the other side.
- Children should never attempt to touch or pet a dog without adult supervision.
- Never pull, grab, or yank any part of a dog (ears, tail, fur, etc.) as this can be very painful for the dog.
- Never attempt to sit on, lay on, or ride a dog. This is extremely dangerous and could permanently injure the dog’s neck, back, hips, or legs.
- Never attempt to take food, treats, or toys away from a dog. Some dogs are extremely protective of their food, treats, and toys and may see the removal as a threat.
- If a dog is on a leash, always ask the owner’s permission before approaching or petting the dog. Some dogs are Service Animals and distracting them could interfere with the tasks they are trained to perform. Additionally, non-Service Animals may not be friendly or receptive to strangers. If you are given permission to approach and pet the dog, do so calmly, slowly, and quietly.
- Keep your face far away from dogs’ faces, even when playing. An unexpected event could alarm the dog and it may bite.
- If a dog is chasing you and you are not near a safe barrier, stop running. Unfortunately, it is extremely unlikely that you will outrun the dog and running creates a “game” for the dog. Avoid eye-contact and slowly back away from the dog. If the dog continues to be aggressive, take appropriate measures to protect yourself.