WHAT would your child do if he or she encountered a stray dog without you present?
Here are some tips and brief explanations of what to do and why:
Stop. Be a tree! Chasing is natural to dogs. Running away from an unknown (or known) dog may encourage a prey instinct to chase. Standing still is best.
Eyes away: Look to the side or down away from the dog. Direct eye contact may be threatening to a dog.
Talk calmly: Or talk in a friendly voice if at all. "Good puppy, go home." Screaming may alarm and stress the dog creating a fearful reaction. It is best to be calm and quiet.
Turn body: Turn your side towards the dog. This is a non-threatening position to a dog. Do not turn your back or have the dog out of view.
Exit once the dog has moved along. If the dog is still in view, move slowly backwards being aware of where the dog is.
Report to an adult where you saw this dog and what you remember about him.
Most dogs are friendly but it is best to assume that a lost or stray dog is scared. It does not matter what breed, colour, or size a dog is, all dogs can bite. They are more likely to bite when they are scared or feel threatened.
Following the above suggestions is a good way to do your best to stay safe and communicate to the dog that you are not a threat.
Please visit us at www.familypaws.com with your child. Our safety quiz has a great deal of information and situations that we know you will find helpful! Happy Schooldays! - Jennifer Shryock, Family Paws.
