A Night out for Mom and Dad
 It is Saturday night and you have planned
for a babysitter to entertain and care for your children while you
have a date with your spouse. Aaaahhhh adult time! Your sitter arrives
and greets the kids and your eager dog. As you go over the rules, meal
plan and emergency numbers your furry family member follows your every
move. He even almost models how to diaper the youngest one. He is excited
and not sure what is going on, but he is thrilled to have a new person
to pay attention to him. You give hugs, kiss the kids Goodnight and
give a pat to your pup as you head out. In your car you mentally go
over the details to be sure you told the sitter everything. You drive
off confident you have covered it all.
But have you? What about your dog? Do you know
how this babysitter feels about dogs? Have you provided an area where
the dog can be put so that they can focus full attention on the kids?
What about if there is a thunderstorm? How will your dog react and
what should the babysitter do?
It is important that parents learn about safe
kid & k9 interaction so that they can help plan and prepare anyone
who will be responsible for their children while they are away from
home. When parents leave the home the dynamics change. This can create
confusion for some dogs. Planning ahead sets everyone up for success.
I suggest that parents find a quiet and secure spot for their k9 companion
while away from home. Provide a stuffed kong or some kind of unique
treat for these times. This will allow your babysitter to focus their
full attention on the kids. If confining your dog is not an option
then I encourage you to educate your babysitter about safe kid & k9
interaction. Learn about the signs and signals your dog offers to indicate
stress.
Dogs and kids often share a unique bond. This
is something to cherish. It is important to remember that they are
dogs and perceive things very differently then we do. Learning about
canine body language and behavior helps you to ensure a safe and loving
bond between your canine and all family members.
Article submitted by: © Jennifer Shryock
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