Our prep for school children at both services, had a fantastic opportunity to participate in a special incursion focused on Living Safely with Pets. These engaging presentations offered valuable insights into how to interact safely with dogs, equipping our young learners with important lessons that will help keep them and their furry friends safe.
One of the key takeaways was understanding when it’s safe to approach a dog and when it’s best to keep our distance. The children learned the phrase “Let him be,” which means that if a dog is eating, sleeping, sick, or showing signs of discomfort or anger, it’s best not to approach them. This simple guideline empowers children to recognise situations where their safety comes first.
The interactive session sparked thoughtful questions. For instance, when the handler asked, “What do we do if your ball goes over someone’s fence and there’s a dog?” Angus wisely responded, “You ask if we can get the ball.” This exchange highlighted the importance of communication and asking for permission before approaching a dog, reinforcing a respectful attitude towards pets.
We also learned the proper way to introduce ourselves to a dog. The children were shown how to extend their hands for a dog to sniff by putting their hand out and closing it over their thumb. The mantra “Stop, Ask, Smell, Pat” became a fun and memorable way to remember the steps to take before saying hello to an unfamiliar dog.
After the presentation, each child had the chance to demonstrate what they had learned. They confidently approached a friendly dog, asking, “Can I please pat your dog?” before using the correct hand position to allow the dog to sniff. It was heartwarming to see the children engage with the dog safely and respectfully.
This incursion not only educated our Preps on how to interact with dogs but also fostered a sense of responsibility and awareness around pet safety. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide such important lessons that will benefit our children and their interactions with pets for years to come. Teaching them these skills early lays the foundation for safe and enjoyable experiences with animals throughout their lives!
