Dog Awareness
Dog Awareness – Staying Safe Around Dogs 🐾
Be Kind. Be Calm. Be Dog Aware.
At Winford Church of England Primary School, we believe that learning to understand and respect animals is an important part of helping children develop kindness, empathy and responsibility.
Having Bella, our school dog, provides opportunities for children to learn about dogs, how they communicate and how we can keep both people and animals safe.
These are important life skills, whether children have a dog at home, meet dogs when out and about or spend time with Bella at school.
Our Golden Rules for Staying Safe Around Dogs
What Should I Do if an Unfamiliar Dog Approaches Me?
If an unfamiliar dog approaches you and you feel worried:
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Stay as calm as possible.
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Stand still, with your arms close to your body.
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Avoid staring directly into the dog's eyes.
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Do not scream, run away or wave your arms.
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Allow the dog to move away.
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Slowly move towards a safe place when it is safe to do so.
Always tell a trusted adult if you feel frightened or concerned.
If you are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball and protect your head and neck with your arms.
Understanding Bella's Needs
Bella is an important member of our school community, and we want her to feel just as safe and happy as our children.
When spending time with Bella, children are reminded to:
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Follow the instructions of the adult supervising her.
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Approach calmly and gently.
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Allow her to come towards them if she wishes.
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Stroke her only when invited to do so.
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Respect her rest time and quiet space.
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Wash their hands after touching her.
No child is ever required to interact with Bella.
We recognise that some children may be frightened of dogs or have allergies, and we always respect their needs and preferences.
Responsible Dog Ownership
Caring for a dog is a big responsibility.
Dogs need:
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Appropriate food and fresh water.
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Daily exercise and opportunities to explore.
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A safe and comfortable place to sleep.
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Veterinary care and preventative healthcare.
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Positive training and socialisation.
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Companionship, enrichment and time to rest.
Dogs are living creatures with their own feelings and needs, not toys.
Learning to care for animals helps us understand the importance of responsibility, patience and compassion.
Dogs Around Our School
We ask all dog owners to help keep our school entrance and surrounding areas safe and welcoming.
Please:
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Keep dogs under close control near the school.
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Avoid allowing dogs to approach children without permission.
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Keep entrances, gates and pathways clear.
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Clean up after your dog.
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Respect children and adults who may be frightened of dogs or have allergies.
Please follow the school's arrangements regarding dogs on the premises. Bella's presence as our school dog is managed separately through the school's agreed procedures.
Useful Resources for Families
If you would like to help your child learn more about dog safety and responsible ownership, the following organisations provide useful information:
The Dogs Trust
Advice about dog behaviour, responsible ownership and helping children stay safe around dogs.
The Blue Cross
Information about caring for pets, animal welfare and understanding dog behaviour.
The RSPCA
Advice about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership and keeping animals healthy and happy.
Meet Bella!
Would you like to find out more about our school dog and how she supports children at Winford?
Together we Flourish
Showing kindness, respect and care for all living things.
