Facts for Kids... about Dog Safety

1. How to approach a friendly dog

Ask the adult with you first.... Ask the dog owner next
Ask the dog as well by.....

  • Standing quietly next to the dog
  • Placing your hand out near the dog, curl your fingers and allow the dog to sniff
  • Waiting to see if the dog wants to be patted and comes to you
  • If it's OK then just a tickle under the chin or on the chest is most welcome

Do not pat a dog on its head. It may not like it.

Do not stare at the dog.

2. When to leave a dog alone

  • Lifts its lips
  • Growls
  • Backs away
  • Raises the hair on its back

3. What to do if approached by an unleashed, unknown dog

  • Stand still. Be absolutely quiet
  • Hug yourself - tuck your fingers under your armpits
  • Look away from the dog
  • Wait for the dog to go away
  • Tell a responsible adult

    • 4. What to do if you are knocked down by an unleashed, unknown dog...

    • Curl your body up like a ball to hide from the dog
    • Stay quiet
    • Wait for the dog to go away
    • Tell a responsible adult

    Remember....

    Most dogs are friendly... friendly dogs appear relaxed, calm and interested

    Some dogs are unfriendly... children need to recognise and respect a dog's feelings. A dog might be sleepy, angry, sick, frightened and may not want contact. It might not want to be interrupted because it is eating or playing with a favourite toy.

    Angry or frightened dogs are unfriendly... An angry dog will stand straight, prick its ears, look at you, straighten its tail, might lift its lip or bark

 

PO BOX 416
Happy Valley SA 5159
Ph: (08) 8387 8850
Email: tegan@deltadogsafesa.org.au