Here are some ways to keep everyone safe and happy ...

• Require RSVP of children.  Get ages so that proper activities are available.

• Let attendees know that children will be attending so that if their dog isnot comfortable with children then they can decline.

• Set up structured activities that the kids can do. Ex.  Coloring contest, Doggone Crazy Game (www.doggonecrazy.ca <http://www.doggonecrazy.ca/> )

• Have kids judge dog contests.

• Know all the dogs attending the party.

• Keep the number of attending dogs very low when children are attending.

• SUPERVISION must be constant.

• It is best if dogs are leashed at parties with children.  Dog-to-dog interaction can turn ugly quickly and it is too easy for children to get caught in the middle.

• Plan any unleashed activities and interaction in a designated area that the kids are not playing in.

• Prior to the party have a brief dog bite prevention presentation for kids. <http://www.doggonesafe.com/> www.doggonesafe.com

• Set up rules and guidelines with parents and children prior to the party.

• Running and screaming children can be over stimulating for many dogs and can trigger predatory responses in others.  

Special thanks to Jen Shryock, certified dog behavior consultant, trainer, lecturer and teacher who specializes in safety between dogs and kids. Shryock is the founder of Family Paws and U.S. Coordinator of DoggoneSafe.

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Call 940 597 1612