Making Furry Friends
ask an expert: animal safetycanada
(Jun.22.10)
With petting zoo and public park season in full swing, what should parents and children keep in mind when they're around animals?
Alice J. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and pet expert Brad Pattinson answered:
Children need to be aware that animals have a separate language and need to be respected. Here are a few things to remember:
- Always take a slow approach to animals.
- Do not disturb animals when they're eating.
- No jumping, pushing or hitting animals.
- Animals have feelings.
- Animals move much quicker then children. Do not run, scream and cry around animals, this can trigger some animals to react in ways that could harm a child.
The golden rule that should never be broken is "Ask before touching any animal." Many dogs will nip without intending to harm a child, therefore, it is the parents responsibility to monitor child interaction around any animal.
When greeting a dog, always cover a child's hand with an adult's hand. Allow the dog to sniff the adult's hand first then slowly expose the child's hand. Do not approach an animal by running towards their face. Keep your voice calm, the less sporadic movements, the better.
Boys are the most likely to be bitten, second are girls, third are the elderly and lastly, adults. Keep hands and face clean before approaching animals. Many are treat-trained and have a much higher level of biting by snapping and taking food. This can end with a child missing a finger. Never allow a child to give a dog a treat. Thank the owner for allowing a greeting to happen between the dog and child. This helps the child understand animals need to be respected and rules need to be followed.
Brad Pattison is an animal trainer and life coach who has been professionally remedying dog behaviour for over fifteen years. Best known for his TV series, At the End of My Leash, Pattison also founded Vancouver's Yuppy Puppy Dog Day Care Inc., pioneered the first Street Safety training program for dogs and facilitates courses that certify other dog trainers. He's also been featured on Discovery Channel's Daily Planet.
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