Dog Safety

	Your Responsibilities as a dog owner... As a dog owner you have a number of obligations. All dog owners must: - register the dog with the local council - ensure the dog is unable to escape from your yard - take responsibility for any damage the dog has caused - leash their dogs in public places Some councils have set aside special areas for unleashed dogs. Check with your local council Responsible dog owners should also... - exercise the dog daily - have the dog desexed if it is not intended for breeding - ensure all vaccinations and worming schedules are adhered to.
	Avoid dog bites by... - teaching children how to behave toward dogs (as explained in this page) - ensuring your dog is properly trained to sit, stay, drop and come - always supervise young children near dogs - choose a breed that is suited to your lifestyle and environment - ensuring your dog has the opportunity to socialise safely with children teaching children to interact with dogs by modelling the desired behaviour
Stand still if approached by a strange dog	Teach your child to... - never approach a strange dog without permission from the owner - approach a dog slowly with the back of the hand extended - curl your fingers and allow the dog to sniff - stroke the dog gently on the chest, or shoulder or under the chin - avoid approaching dogs that are sleeping or eating - stand still like a fence post if approached by a strange dog and not squeal or jump - avoid eye contact with the dog Teach children that a dog should be left alone if it... - lifts its lips - growls - backs away - raises the hair on its back
	The benefits of having a dog in the family... Studies show that children who own pets have higher self esteem, improved social skills and are more popular with their peers. Pet ownership can create a number of positive opportunities for children to: - develop a sense of responsibility and caring for others - establish a daily exercise routine - develop friendships


The above is from a leaflet designed, developed and produced by:
The Safety Centre Royal Children's Hospital Parkville, Vic 3052 Tel (03) 9345 5085 Fax (03) 9345 5086	Petcare Information& Advisory Service Tel (03) 9827 5344 Fax (03) 9827 5090 Toll Free: 1800 331 783
and is produced in New South Wales for

For more information or assistance in choosing a breed of dog that will suit your lifestyle and needs, or to find a training organisation to assist with your requirements, please call: Royal New South Wales Canine Council Ltd Tel (02) 9834 3022 Fax (02) 9834 3872 Email k9council@rnswcc.org.au Website www.rnswc.org.au or call Petcare Information & Advisory Service Selectapet Toll Free 1800 331 783

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