by: John Altmeyer
Fortunately, it is rare that it happens, but the horror of an infant or baby being malled or killed by the family dog is nearly incomprehensible. Moreover, it is in most cases preventable. The parents of a maimed or dead child are certainly not to be blamed, as their grief is more than I can begin to understand.
These parents obviously have a love for dogs and children. Sadly, the parents lack of knowledge concerning the relationship between a dog and a new-born brought into the dog's domain may contribute to the previously mentioned tragedy.
From the dog's point of view, consider the situation. Tippy is literally top dog of the household. He is pampered, showered with attention and praise. Then, one day, it happens.
Tippy's human parents bring home a new-born human. Tippy observes that the parents are making quite a fuss over this little human intruder. There are even lots of human visitors entering Tippy's home, and they all ignore Tippy and make a big deal about this little human.
Tippy is number one around here, so what's going on? Tippy tries to get in on the action. He approaches the parents with the little human, and one or both parents, fearing that Tippy may harm the infant, scold Tippy, and demand that he go elsewhere. Tippy has no clue as to what has just happened. All Tippy knows is that ever since that little human has enter HIS home, Tippy's human parents have been down right mean to Tippy, and it is all because of that little human. All the sudden, they love that little human, and Tippy means nothing to them.
Get the picture? Tippy, due to lack of affection, and even scoldings, has learned to hate the infant, the cause of his life suddenly becoming miserable. Is it no wonder then, that one day, when the opportunity presents itself, Tippy attacks the enemy, that defenseless little infant. In short, Tippy has been unknowingly trained to hate that little human.
So, how can such tragedies be prevented? The parents must train Tippy to love the little human. Tippy must associate good thoughts with the infant. Parents, introduce your new-born to the dog right away. Let Tippy sniff and even lick the baby. Praise Tippy exceedingly for being good to the baby. Shower Tippy with more affection and praise than ever before. That way, Tippy knows he is still top dog around here, and even though his human parents seem to fuss a lot over that little human they brought home, Tippy is still number one! Moreover, if Tippy gets extra attention, praise, and even treats, for being nice to the little human, then Tippy will guard and protect with dog loyalty the small wonder that is a precious baby.
Created on ... October 29, 2003