Puppy love…
Every year, more than 4.7 million Americans are bitten by dogs, with more than half of all victims younger than age 14. The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Veterinary Medical Association and the US Postal Service offer these tips to help parents protect their children from an encounter with canine teeth…
Pick a good match
Collies and labrador retrievers are some of the animals recommended as generally safe with children. Consult your veterinarian for details about the behavior of different breeds. Be particularly careful if you’re rehoming an older dog from an animal shelter.
Socialize your pet
Gradually expose your puppy to a variety of people and other animals so it feels at ease in these situations; continue this exposure as your dog gets older.
Train your dog
Commands can build a bond of obedience and trust between man and beast. Avoid aggressive games like wrestling or tug-of-war with your dog.
Vaccinate your dog
A dog that’s in pain or ill can be aggressive. Ensure your dog is protected against rabies and other diseases that might affects its mood and temperament.
Neuter your dog
Neutered dogs are less likely to bite.
Supervise at all times
Never leave a baby or small child alone with a dog and don’t let your baby crawl on the floor while your dog is in the room.
Teach petiquette
Tell your child to always ask if a dog is friendly and to ask its owner for permission to pet the dog. Let the dog sniff your child and have your child touch the dog gently, with slow, controlled movements, avoiding its face, head and tail. Warn your child never to approach a dog that is off its leash or out without its owner, and not to bother a dog if it is sleeping, eating or caring for puppies.
Stay calm if threatened
If you and your child are threatened by a dog, remain calm. Avoid eye contact and stand still until the dog leaves, or back away slowly – never run. If you’re knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your face with your hands. Your child needs to know to do this too.
Treat dog bites straightaway
If a dog bites your child, clean small wounds with soap and water and seek medical attention for larger wounds. Contact the dog’s veterinarian to check vaccination records.