Pet of the Month We all love our pets, big or small. Send in their photo to make them known to all. Include a brief description about your family pet to tami@villagerpublications.com, and below are some handy tips from your local vet.
Say hello to Meatball! As a rescue, and only a year old, Meatball was untrained and a bit on the wild side. But with much-needed TLC he has blossomed into a wonderful family dog. He loves our country property where he can run about with our family, chasing his ball or gathering sticks! He has three house cat friends and loves to snuggle up on the couch with each of us. He also loves his naps, treats, and mooching for food. We are so happy we gave him a loving home. The Mutton Family
Dog Bite Prevention, Part 2: How to Safely Interact with Dogs by Dr. Katelyn Elliott BSc MSc DVM, Ilderton Pet Hospital In our previous article, we focused on bite prevention by inter- preting a dog’s body language. This month, we’ll discuss the best ways to greet and interact with dogs. If you remember from last month, children are the most likely to suffer from a dog bite. As such, teaching them how to respect and enjoy their furry companions is essential in prevention. Here are some important tips for safe interactions: 1. Ask Before Approaching: Always ask the dog’s owner if it’s okay to approach their dog and ensure they have control before approaching. 2. Proper Greeting: When greeting a dog, hold your palm face up and allow them to sniff you before petting them. 3. Stay Still: If a dog approaches you, stay still. They’ll typically sniff you and move on once they realize you aren’t a threat. 4. Don’t Run: Running may trigger a dog’s instinct to chase or herd, potentially leading to aggression or nipping. 5. Respect Boundaries: Give a dog space when they’re sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
6. Avoid Safe Spaces: Never reach through a fence to pet a dog or enter their safe space, like a crate, while they’re inside. This can be seen as a territorial threat. If you encounter an agitated dog, it’s important to remain calm and avoid making loud noises. Speak in a firm but calm voice and avoid direct eye contact. Stay still until the dog loses interest or slowly back away out of their view. Never run, as this could provoke the dog further. If knocked to the ground, protect your face by curling into a ball, covering your head and neck with your hands. For further information on dog bite prevention, consider taking courses or checking out online resources like Be A Tree! Don’t Flee. www.familypaws.com/dog-bite-prevention-be-a-tree To learn more about safe interactions with pets please visit our linked resources: ontariospca.ca/blog/understanding-canine-behaviour-body-postures www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention veterinarypartner.vin.com/default aspx?pid=19239&id=8790792 outwardhound.com/furtropolis/pet-parenting/how-to-read-dog- body-language Sophia Yin, cattledogpublishing.com
Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack!
Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca
Drop in for all your dog, cat, and small pets food & supplies; as well as wild bird seed, chicken, and horse feed. We carry the brands you want, from value added to high quality, at competitive prices.
C atty S hack THE London Animal Care Centre – Licensing, Bylaw Enforcement, Adoption and Lost/Found Services: 121 Pine Valley Blvd., (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack: 756 Windermere Rd., (519) 432-4572
519-857-2385 • 13229 Ilderton Road
To advertise here, please contact Tami@villagerpublications.com
Ilderton and Area Villager March 2025 • Page 5
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