Pet Kills North Texas Baby: Laredoans Speak Out
By
KGNS News
Story Created:
Sep 26, 2012 at 6:16 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Sep 26, 2012
The death of a baby in North Texas is sparking some conversation about how safe it is to have a family pet near your children.
The three-month-old died after being mauled by the family dog.
Animal advocates say any pet can be dangerous if it's not properly socialized.
And a bad situation can get worse very quickly, especially if you're introducing a brand new baby into the home.
The tragic story out of North Texas where a three-month-old was mauled by the family dog has people in Laredo talking.
“It's very sad I think they're irresponsible parents.”
It's not clear if or for how long the baby was left alone or what prompted the attack.
but people here say the same can happen anywhere.
This woman says “Chiquito” and “Mijo” are sweet to her but she takes precautions and keeps them on a leash.
“With the kids going by when they go to school, he goes after them but I keep him close to me.”
29 cases of animals bites have been reported to the Laredo police department since January.
animal advocates say socializing your pet is key, especially when a new family member is introduced.
“the ideal situation is to start before the baby comes knowing your pet.”
“it wont hurt to bring from the hospital a baby blanket and other things so the puppy can become accustomed and start smelling the baby before it comes home.”
“If you have to put baby down on a bed where a pet can reach it's best to close the door.”
“Keeping baby safety inside and pets out.”
Children should always be supervised.
And adults remember they may seem like mans best friend but can react quickly to someone they don’t know.
“Be more responsible use common sense.”
Pet advocates say this may all seem like common sense but there are so many people who think their animal whether it be a dog or cat can't do any harm. Carvalho says when an animal feels threatened it will react.
