Page 39 - Senior Scene Magazine November 2018

PAW’S CORNER
By Sam Mazzotta
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I was hoping that my 3-year- old grandson and my dog “Charlie” would get along. But Charlie, who’s a little Chihuahua, always barks like crazy when my grandson walks in the room. It scares my grandson, who starts crying. How can I bring these two together to be friends? -- Jerry T., Wichita, Kansas
DEAR JERRY: You may need to wait until your grandson is a little bit older to properly introduce them. Charlie appears to be getting stressed when the toddler comes into the room. Is Charlie a rescue? Maybe there’s an incident in his past that is making him nervous when small children are around. Or, being a small dog, Charlie may simply be unnerved by your grandson’s size or gait.
If your grandson is old enough to follow instructions and exercise some self-control, you can carefully introduce the two. Hold Charlie in your
Senior Scene® | November Issue
Can Dog, Grandson Ever be Friends?
arms so that he feels safe, and so you can keep him at or just a little higher than your grandson’s line of sight. Tell your grandson not to try and touch or grab Charlie, and to speak quietly.
At this point, if Charlie remains calm when he’s face to face with a toddler, then give your grandson permission to pet Charlie gently. If your dog growls or gives any sign of being stressed, back away or have your grandson pull back, to prevent any nips or wild barking.
Don’t get discouraged if the relationship doesn’t work out, and don’t force it. Instead, focus on teaching your grandson how to safely approach and interact with dogs. When he’s older and has more self-control, you again can try to bring them together.
Send your questions, comments and tips to ask@ pawscorner.com. (c) 2017 King Features Synd., Inc. SS
November 2017 | Senior Scene® Magazine | 39