ABC ANIMATIONS

PET SAFETY TIPS

Animals make great friends and playmates, but children — especially those under age 5 — require a great deal of supervision. Whether you own a pet or are simply around animals, here are tips to keep kids protected:

Children should not be left alone with an animal.

Never approach strange dogs or animals. You should never reach through a fence to pet a dog.

Never approach strange dogs or animals

Wash your hands with soap and water after handling pets.

Do not pull on the ears and tail of animals, or pinch, squeeze, or make loud noises. You should never disturb a dog while it is resting.

Do not pull on the ears and tail of animals

The Great Outdoors

Stepping outside can mean a world full of great animals to see — from squirrels in trees to birds in flight. In some parts of the world, kids may see slithery snakes, black bats, or even cool coyotes. And don't forget raccoons, skunks, and other critters that come out in some places at night.

The rule in the great outdoors is simple:

Don't touch or go near an animal. Although some of these animals may look cool or even cute, leave them alone. These animals aren't like regular pets. They're not used to being around people and may bite or attack if you come near them. They also might have rabies.

DON'T TOUCH OR GO NEAR A WILD ANIMAL

Don't ever try to feed a wild animal. Bird feeders are OK, but other animals, even if they look hungry, shouldn't ever be fed. When it comes to these animals, it's better for everyone if you stay away and check them out at the zoo, on the Internet, on TV nature shows, or in books.

PHYSICAL SAFETY

To protect yourself from an overexcited pet, do not run and scream. Instead, roll into a ball, protect your hands and face, and call for help.

Cats and especially dogs can become defensive around the food dish. Do not sneak up on, or put your hand near the bowl when the pet is eating.

Do not get near, or try to stop two dogs from fighting. The animals may become more excited if they are yelled at or separated.
Get an adult to help.

Never take a toy or bone from a dog's mouth

Some dogs are very attached to their balls and toys. Never take a toy or bone from a dog's mouth unless the dog is willing to drop it. If the dog is unwilling to drop the toy have an adult get the toy.