Animals make great friends to human beings — especially the children those under age 5 — require a great deal of supervision. Whether you own a pet or are simply around animals, here are tips to keep kids protected from animals:
*He should never disturb a dog while it is resting, sleeping, eating, or playing with a favorite toy. At the same time your child should not pull on the ears and tail of animals, or pinch, squeeze, or make loud noises.
* Make sure that children are not allowed to sleep with an animal in bed.
* Ensure that you and your child always soap wash your hands after handling pets.
* Teach your child to never approach strange dogs or animals. Child should be taught not to reach pet through fence.
* Don't allow your pets to lick your child's face or any cuts or scratches.
* Gradually increase your child's responsibility for pet care, but remember you remain the number-one caregiver.
* Mistreating an animal — tugging a tail or playing too rough — usually stems from curiosity or exuberance. Be sure to safeguard your animal's welfare and help your child understand the animal's needs.
* Plan carefully for a new pet so you can commit to caring for it throughout its lifetime. Unfortunately, pets given to shelters are most likely to come from families with kids.
* Learn all you can about the training, feeding, and care of your pet by reading books or pamphlets from your vet or by watching videos.
