Forum: Teach young children how to behave around pets

I was out walking my dog recently when a toddler suddenly ran towards my dog, seemingly intent on chasing it. In the ensuing chaos, the child tripped and fell, instinctively grabbing onto my dog for support. This startled my dog which, fortunately, did not bite the child.

I looked around for the child’s parents but could not find them. The situation left me fuming and concerned – not only because my dog was unnecessarily stressed, but also because such incidents are preventable with proper parental supervision.

Toddlers should not approach unfamiliar animals without adult guidance, as both children and pets can be harmed in the process. Had my dog reacted differently, it could have led to a bad outcome.

Parents must teach their children basic respect for animals: Never chase or grab them, or approach them without the owner’s permission. It is a matter of safety for everyone involved. Dogs, no matter how gentle, can be startled or defensive, and young children often do not understand how to read animal behaviour.

I hope this incident will remind people that respecting others’ pets is a fundamental part of responsible parenting.

Samantha Lim