How to Encourage Healthy Interaction Between a Child and Pet

Even a child-friendly pet has a breaking point. Always supervise child-pet interactions, and teach your child the best way to interact with an animal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Dog Bones
• Dog Brushes Or Other Grooming Aids
• Dog Leashes
• Dog Toys
• Doghouses And Doors
• Cat Combs/brushes
• Cat Toys
• Catnip

1. Always supervise a toddler in the presence of a cat or dog. Lack of supervision can lead to trouble.
2. Explain to the child that all creatures feel pain, then teach him or her how to gently pet animals. Even after the child has learned proper handling, be sure to always supervise.
3. Teach children not to disturb any pet that is eating, sleeping, playing with or chewing on a favorite toy or bone.
4. Teach children that it is inappropriate to chase or restrain a dog or cat.
5. Teach children that kicking, biting, pulling or jumping on a pet, screaming into its ears or generally harassing it - regardless of how harmless it may seem - is inappropriate and could be dangerous.
6. Allow your child to help care for the pet by participating in its bathing and feeding.
7. Have your child go for walks with a pet dog while under adult supervision.
8. As the child matures have him or her participate in training classes with a pet dog. Select a trainer who uses positive training methods.