Daily Musings

Our pets and children

         My topic today is in view of the dog that attacked the toddler here in SoFlo. When do we deem our pets safe to be around our kids. Most families already have pets by the time kids come around in the picture. Sometimes, we adopt new puppies when our kids are old enough to look after the new family addition. In my particular case, my youngest had been begging for a dog since she was 4 and finally we found a place where we could have one for free without my landlord going crazy on pet management fees. My eldest has had a fear of ALL animals forever and we had a long road where getting rid of that fear was concerned. Do I believe that animals are an extension of their owners? YES.

         If you train your dog properly accidents like this would never happen. The greatest misconception is to think that babies are entirely safe around animals without adult supervision. First of you are putting two unpredictable beings together and anything can happen. Animals react differently to different people. Even when you train a dog properly chances are that if he loses your scent unexpectedly he could react defensively.

         If you are not sure about how your dog behaves around children, then chances are you might need to seek guidance where his behavior is concerned. Take him/her to parks where dogs are allowed and children can be heard or seen playing. The more interaction a dog has with children, the better for it. Stay safe, dedicate time to your pets, because after all they are an important part of your family.