Trial run proves RSPCA barking up right tree

A dog might be a man's best friend, but they can sometimes be a bit scary for little kids.

To help local children know what to do when they come across the path of a stray dog, Dubbo RSPCA education officer Karen Johnston set up camp in the Orana Mall Marketplace at the weekend.

With the help of her furry canine 'Shadow' by her side it didn't take long before Mrs Johnston was surrounded my curious children all wanting a pat.

To help the little animal lovers understand that not all dogs are as friendly as their own pet might be Mrs Johnston had some great teaching strategies to make sure the message to behave safely around dogs sank in.

"When you come across a dog without an owner it's really important you become as still as a tree trunk, wrapping your branches around your chest," she said as her captive audience followed her example. "This way instead of chasing you or trying to pull at your arms the dog will think you're really boring and leave."

A trial run before the RSPCA launches a series of animal education sessions in local schools, Mrs Johnston was pleased so many children took part in the presentation.

Passing mother Cathy Raidaveta said she couldn't hold her dog-loving children back when they saw the two dogs.

Reference: dubbo.yourguide.com.au

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