Ontario Coalition Against Breed Specific Legislation

Ontario Annual Dog Bite Prevention Month

Why do we need dog bite prevention?

Every year, there are thousands of dog bites across Ontario and across the world. Unfortunately, more than 75% of dog bite related injuries involve young children. Dog bites can be emotionally traumatizing, especially when you learn that the vast majority are totally preventable.

One of the greatest obstacles when it comes to preventing dog bites is that children (and adults) simply aren't provided with the required education on dog safety etiquette, and don't understand how to listen to dogs as they try to communicate. Dog Bite Prevention Month is an annual event full of education, helpful tips, and awareness into the reasons WHY dogs can bite, and ways to PREVENT bites all together. The primary goal is to help teach children how to be safe around dogs, and learn to LISTEN to dogs when they try to talk. When children are able to understand why dogs bite, it is our best way to help ensure that dogs DON'T bite!

The Ontario Coalition Against BSL Dog Bite Prevention Program includes short dog safety video lessons from our ambassadog, Kira, easy to follow pictures for children accompanied by educational narrative for parents and teachers, interactive educational guides for children, and tips on ways you can be a safe and responsible owner.

For more information on our Dog Bite Prevention Program, or to receive the program in full for distribution in shelters, veterinary offices, rescues, training facilities, schools, or day cares, please don't hesitate to contact us directly. Be sure to tune in for our third annual event, starting April 1st, 2024 and help us to get the message out to ensure safer, kinder communities for all!

Dogs really can speak - you just need to know how to listen!!!

Short, Children's Educational Dog Safety Videos!

Lesson One: "Be a Tree" and "Be a Ball"

Ontario Coalition Against BSL Ambassadog, Kira, discusses why it is very important to never run away from a dog. In lesson number one, she reviews the “be a tree” and “be a ball” safety tips.

Lesson Two: Ask Permission BEFORE Saying Hello!

Ontario Coalition Against BSL Ambassadog Kira is back for lesson number two, where she explains the importance of asking permission to say hello to dogs. She reviews ways you can ask the owner AND the dog if it is ok!

Lesson Three: Safety Zones

In lesson number three, Kira discusses how extremely important it is to ensure you give dogs space - she likes to think of it as the safety zone! She explains why it is VERY important to keep your face away from the face of an unfamiliar dog, and reviews other situations that can cause dogs to be frightened, and sometimes retaliate with a bite.

Lesson Four: Safety For YOUR Dog!

In lesson number four, Kira reviews a few ways to help keep your dog safe in your own home when you have visitors, both big and small! While there are HUNDREDS of ways you can help, she outlines just a few of the easiest and most efficient ways!

Lesson Five: Embrace the Growl!

In lesson number five, Kira discusses the importance of listening to your dog when they try to communicate - including the growl! Growling isn't something to be feared, it is something to be listened to! Listen as Kira explains in easy to understand and comparable situation language for children!

2023 Supporters List

TLC Grooming

Stray Dog Brewing Company

Global Pet Food - Westboro location

Peak Performance Training and Nutrition - Brockville

Pet Valu

Shorty's Rescue

Kayla's Dog Grooming

Babyface Bullies

Hershey Anti BSL Group

Ottawa Citizens Against Breed Specific Legislation/BSL

Save Ontario's "Pit Bull"

K9-Hansel

Ottawa Humane Society

Ontario "Pit Bull" Coop

Dave McMahon Dog Training Academy

Pit Sisters

New Brunswick Bullies

Woffin Waggin Bred and Biscuit

United Paws

Sydney and Bella Stories

Bully Love Boutique

Studio Me Hair Design

Dash Vapes - Gloucester Location

MPP Rick Nicholls

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of Canada

Pitbull's Rock

Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers

DanKroft K9 Training Services

Wonderfit Gym and Training Facility

Nice Dog, Scarlett

Critter Jungle - Orleans Location

Canine Training by Team Fergus

Blueboy Organics

Country Canines Playpark

MPP David Piccini

Rens Pets - Orleans

The Fluffy Carnivore Pet Food Market

Grey Bruce Friends of Bully Breed Dogs