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A Fatal Incident Leads Our Trainer To Give Tips on Pet Safety Around Babies
By:
Revival Dog Training
| Published 12/16/2025
By Hayley Kenner, CPDT-KSA
A tragic incident occurred recently in Baytown: a 6-month-old baby girl was fatally attacked by a family dog --a 1-year-old pit bull mix, which was new to the home. Two dogs were removed from the household. One dog, uninvolved in the attack, will be returned to the family, while the attacking dog will be euthanized. Our trainer Lindsay Kahl, CPDT-KA, was interviewed about the incident by KHOU 11.
Lindsay's Tips for Keeping Children Safe Around Pets
Supervision is Essential:
- Always supervise interactions between dogs and children, especially when the dog is new to the home.
- Use gates, crates, or leashes to ensure boundaries and safety when unsupervised.
Gradual Introduction:
- Keep initial interactions between pets and children calm and minimal.
- Slowly acclimate the dog to the baby’s presence and routine.
Safe Spaces for Pets:
- Provide a designated safe space for the dog (e.g., a bed or towel) where they can retreat when overwhelmed.
Pre-Baby Preparation:
- Introduce baby-related items like strollers and cribs before the baby arrives.
- Play baby sounds (e.g., from YouTube) to familiarize dogs with the noises they will encounter.
Training for Boundaries:
- Use crate training and leash training at home to establish rules and boundaries.
- Teach dogs how to greet and interact safely with children.
Understand Canine Communication:
- Dogs primarily communicate through body language, so it’s vital to recognize signs of stress or discomfort (e.g., growling, stiff posture).
- Seek professional help if a dog shows signs of aggression.
Adjusting to Change:
- Dogs need time to adjust to new family members or routines. Be patient and consistent during the transition.
The Takeaway
Ensuring safety between children and pets requires planning, supervision, and an understanding of canine behavior. By following these steps, families can foster a safer and more harmonious environment for everyone involved.
