Animals are wonderful, yet it is important to remember to play it safe when you are around them. Take the time to learn how to read their body language. It will help you to know when they don't want to be handled or are feeling stressed.
Children should be supervised around pets and reminded to leave pets alone if they are eating, sleeping or enjoying a treat. Just like people, pets wish to be respected members of the family and don't want to be teased or hurt.
Education and responsible pet ownership are vital to help children stay safe around animals. Below are helpful resources:
- AVMA Dog Bite Prevention Information
- Dog Bite Education (Shape of the City)
- Animal Behavior Handouts including: Children and Cats & Understanding Cat Aggression Towards People
- Animal Behavior Handouts including: Children and Dogs, Why Dogs Bite & How to Interact Safely with Dogs
- Animal Behavior Handouts including how to properly handle small animals
