Safety around dogs

5 months ago 12th Apr 12:04

New babies
If you already have a dog and are expecting your first baby, you should take precautions to make sure jealousy doesn't provoke aggression:

Change the dog's routine ahead of the baby's arrival so it becomes used to its new regime - it may have to cope with fewer daily walks for the first few weeks, for example Encourage the dog not to go upstairs if that's where your baby will be sleeping Test your dog's reaction if you lavish attention on a doll wrapped in a blanket

SafeKids recommends keeping your dog away from your baby for a few hours after you first come home. After that, introduce the dog on a lead.

Most parents have known that nervous moment when a strange dog looms, especially if it's a big or boisterous animal.

In any situation where your children might come across a new dog, ensure they:

Ask the owner's permission before approaching the dog
Allow the dog to sniff the back of their hand first
Avoid running or screaming if they're frightened, instead they should stand still, fold their arms and stay quiet
Don't at the dog, take its toy or bone, or put their face close to the dog's

If your child is bitten
Clean the wound with running water as soon as possible for ten minutes to reduce the chance of infection
Cover it with a non-stick sterile dressing Stop bleeding by pressing firmly on bite while holding it in the air, if possible

If there's a lot of bleeding or the wound is large, deep or dirty, see a doctor or nurse.

Animal bites abroad are potentially more serious because of the risk of rabies in some countries. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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