All animals, no matter how well-trained or good-natured, can potentially bite, scratch, jump-up or trip someone. The neighbourhood dogs and cats participating in our program have gentle dispositions but may not have received any special training. Therefore, guardians accompanying children or disabled adults are especially encouraged to seek advice from the pet owner before approaching an animal.

To avoid accidents it is important to watch for early warning signs that a dog or cat may exhibit indicating signs of stress. These signs are fortunately very easy to learn, and we can avoid mishaps by being aware of their stress warning signs.

Here is a simple list to help you prevent unexpected accidents:

Watch for tight canine body language. Good dog body language is loose, relaxed, and wiggly. Stiffening and freezing in a dog are not good. If you see a dog tighten his body, or if he moves from panting to holding his breath (he stops panting), you should distance yourself or your child. These are early signs that a dog is not comfortable.

Watch for inappropriate human behavior. Intervene if a child climbs on or attempts to ride a dog. Intervene immediately if a child pulls the ears, yanks the tail, lifts the jowls or otherwise pokes and prods a dog or cat. Don’t test an animal by waiting to see if it will tolerate these antics. Be thankful a dog or cat has good bite inhibition and intervene before it’s too late.