Holiday tails
Published in the Asbury Park Press 12/15/03

Think twice if a puppy is on your gift list

By DOREEN NAGLE
GANNETT NEWS SERVICE
Is this the year the kids will find a dog under the tree or next to
the menorah?
Ready . . . or not?

With all the excitement of the holidays, including other gifts to be
played with, your family may need to consider if this time of year is
the best to bring a new dog into the fray. Especially if very young
children (3 and under) are involved. Is your child distracted easily?
Waiting for a less hectic time might be more appropriate.

Broach the topic by discussing how much care a dog requires: food,
water, exercise, housebreaking "walks," behavior training,
companionship. How enthusiastic is your child as you run down the
list? How responsible is she with other day-to-day chores? Does he
stay on task?

Don't overlook the potential of an allergic reaction by a family
member. Check out this possibility before bringing any pet home. This
simple prep step will save the heartbreak you'd encounter if you find
allergies after the pup is ensconced at your hearth.

Best/worse breeds
Some of the best breeds of dogs for families with children include
retrievers and Labradors. They are gentle and instinctively
protective as well as playful. One veterinarian advises medium to
large vs. small dogs for kids. The latter "aren't as playful and can
be nippy," she says.

The least favored breeds for children are those ranked by the Humane
Society as highest in vicious attacks: pit bull, Rottweiler, German
shepherd, husky, Alaskan malamute. Although, of course, not all dogs
in these breeds are aggressive.

Teach safety
Teach your children these tips even if a dog won't be moving into
your home. (Almost 2.5 million children are bitten by dogs each year).

What does an angry dog look like? Hair risen on the neck or back,
lips curled, teeth bared, ears flat, tail straight up are all warning
signs to stay away, especially if a dog is eating, trying to sleep or
caring for puppies.

Do not try to outstare a dog. Dogs hear an ancient call and could
perceive this as a threat.

Teach the boundaries of getting too rough with a dog -- even your own
dog.

Parents: If your dog is unusually testy, have a vet check for hidden
injuries or disease. Also, never leave your infant or young child
alone with a dog. Do the respectful thing and take your dog to
obedience school as soon as he is old enough.

If the dog is getting carried away with aggressive play or knocks
your child down, teach your child to roll in a ball covering his head
and face, which is where most injuries occur.

Never approach an unfamiliar or unattended dog. When encountering a
strange dog, ask the owner before attempting to pet the dog. Offer
the back of a hand so the dog can sniff.

Never run up to or chase a strange dog. If he approaches, stand still
with arms to the side. Face the dog and walk away backward slowly.

Loud noises and quick movements scare dogs. Teach children to speak
softly when first approaching.

Dogs are instinctively protective of their "herds" and property. That
includes his masters' home, yard and car. Teach caution.

Doreen Nagle is author of "But I Don't Feel Too Old To Be A Mommy"
She welcomes your parenting tips and concerns at
dnc@ritab.com.

© copyright 2003 Gannett News Service
from the Asbury Park Press
Published on December 15, 2003

http://www.app.com/life/critters/story/0,2269,869173,00.html

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