Kids and dogs go together like peanut butter and jelly. But about half of the nearly 4.5 million dog bites reported in the US each year are to children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the rate of dog bite-related injuries is highest among kids aged 5 to 9 years. And children are more likely to need medical attention for their bites.
So to make sure dogs and kids stay BFFs (best furry friends), here are few basics to teach your kids:
• Never approach an unfamiliar dog and don't play with any dog unless there's an adult to supervise.
• Don't run from a dog or scream, jump around or wave your arms. Instead, stay as still as possible.
• Don't try to pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
• Never, ever disturb a dog that's sleeping, eating or taking care of puppies.
• If knocked over, roll into a tight ball, bunch your hands into fists and stay as still as possible.
• If bitten, immediately tell an adult.
If your child seems the least bit fearful or apprehensive about a dog - don't bring one into your household. And when you're looking to adopt, remember that dogs with any history of aggression are not suitable for households with kids under any circumstances.
