Be Safe Around Pets
Having a pet as part of the family brings many benefits, like lower blood pressure and stress levels, the CDC reports. However, pets come with responsibility and risk. Keep reading for tips to stay safe around our animal friends.
PICK THE RIGHT PET
Before adding an animal to your family, make sure you pick the right animal for your lifestyle and your home. If there are children younger than 5 or older than 65, the CDC recommends avoiding some pets, such as amphibians, rodents and reptiles because these people have weaker immune systems and these animals can carry more diseases. Also consider your living space, lifestyle and whether you can meet the animal’s care and attention needs.
HEALTH
Regular veterinary care is important for all your animal friends. Keep to vaccination schedules and take your pet to the vet if it’s sick. Also include your pets in any emergency plans. Make sure after caring for your pets to wash your hands and keep your pets and their habitats clean. Keep pets away from food preparation areas and pick up and dispose of pet waste properly.
PRACTICE PET SAFETY
The CDC also recommends teaching children how to behave with and around pets. Show your children how to interact gently and appropriately with animals. There are a number of books available; check your local library or bookstore for some titles to help. And always supervise children around animals, even the loyal family dog.
DOG BITES
Young children, ages 5 to 9, are the most likely to be bitten by a dog. Prevent dog bites by:
Always asking the owner’s permission and guidance when approaching a dog.
Tell your children to always be alert for strange or loose dogs and tell an adult immediately if they see one.
Teach your children how to approach a dog. Don’t make constant eye contact, reach your hand out to the dog and let it come to you, and don’t try to touch or grab the dog’s head.