by Thom W. Conroy

Created on: May 31, 2009

Too often we forget the basic fact that our pets are animals, and have the tendency to follow instincts based upon survival rather than assess people and situations and react with intellect. No matter how "civilized" a pet may be, there is always an underlying survival mechanism present that when the right set of circumstances allows, can turn an otherwise gentle and affectionate pet into a violent reactionary animal. As pet owners, the task falls upon we humans to ensure that our pets do not cause harm to other humans, in the same way it is our responsibility to protect our pets. The moral obligation for public safety in regard to animal attacks should be foremost in every pet owners mind, but especially when it is applied to children and seniors, who possess a limited ability to defend themselves.

Preventing your pet from harming people begins with creating an atmosphere in which pets are treated with kindness and affection. A pet that comes to view it's owners and other humans are gentle and playful companions is more apt to become less aggressive and more tolerant of humans, and more likely to forgive transgressions on the part of people in general. As a pet owner, it is imperative to impress upon your animals what behaviors are acceptable and which will not be tolerated. Unsuitable behaviors and actions that go unaddressed will only cause these behaviors to escalate, and it is not uncommon in these instances for a pet owner to discover they have lost control. A pet owner needs to embrace and nurture the gentility of their animal, and downplay or discourage aggressive tendencies.

Keeping pets leashed, fenced in or caged when outside of the home will ensure that custody and control of your pet remains with you at all times. When out and about with a pet, apply a little common sense to locations you may visit - taking a dog that is bred to be protective to a locale with smaller animals or children is a recipe for disaster. Even within the home, family members, especially children require an education on animal behavior and self-protection in the event of an aggressive animal encounter.

Enabling a pet to grow into a good "animal citizen" requires a pet owner to make a reasonable effort to gradually incorporate their animal into society. To thrust an animal into a forced interaction when they do not possess the proper socialization skills is not only a disservice to the animal, put places all of society in harm's way. In today's litigious society, the ramifications of irresponsible actions of pet owners can not only result in large financial penalties, put may lead to the destruction of an animal by governing authorities.

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