Big Doggy

   I realize that  many people's pets feel like their "children", and I think that is great for them. We have two cats and I love them, but they are easy and keep to themselves a lot. Although I like some dogs, I don't overall prefer to every own one. As any other mother, I do not want my daughter to be scared of someone's dog, and many times she cannot completely relax with a dog in the room. This stems from a negative experience she had with a family member's dog trying to come at her face numerous times. I honestly can see why that is terrifying and may deter her from opening her arms to any dog who comes her way. She has been taught to ask the owner before you pet or attempt to pet any animal. However, since he past negative experiences, she is genuinely scared of dogs at times.Whattoexpect.com says, "Fears are common at this age, and it's not unusual for a toddler to be wary, even scared, of dogs. Unlike babies, toddlers also have better memories and may be affected by a previous negative experience (like a nip of the fingers by an excited puppy)."

As a mother, I am the mama bear, and if your dog attacks my child then it will have to experience my wrath, which I could not tell you exactly what that would be, but it would be bad.  I should preface by saying I like dogs a lot, and I am not a hater. I am a concerned and pissed off parent. If my child is at your house for a visit or for any reason and she is petrified of your dog (or anyone for that matter) I think it is common curtsey to try and put the dog in another room, outside or away from your guests. If you don't agree, then maybe you shouldn't invite children, or anyone who is not madly in love with dogs to come over. My first concern is my child, and I will protect her in any way, shape or form. It highly annoys me when people/family are annoyed that your child (who is smaller than your dog) is afraid. What if you met a dog larger than yourself? I bet you would be scared too. Thankfully my daughter is growing up and learning that she can trust some dogs and she is very excited to see one. I just made a personal decision that I am now going to speak out when I am put in another situation.-Thoughts from a ticked mom ;)  Please comment and share your opinion