Amazon.com
If you have children, you need this video. Internationally known expert on pet behavior Dr. Wayne Hunthausen, D.V.M., offers children clear, step-by-step instructions on safely interacting with dogs and cats. The 27-minute video opens with two young children, Jessica and Scott, bringing in their dog and cat for a checkup and shots. As he examines the animals, Dr. Hunthausen describes how animals "talk" with sound and body language. This is one doctor who makes house calls--he then visits the children's house to elaborate on how to be safe with animals. The whole premise of Jessica and Scott sitting with their pets and interacting one on one with Dr. Hunthausen keeps kids interested and focused through what might otherwise be an uninteresting lecture. Topics covered are how animals communicate through vocalizing and body language, danger signs for both dogs and cats, how to handle and play with animals, how to interact with other people's pets, and techniques for staying safe when meeting animals outside. Especially impressive is the footage of animals displaying various warning signs--kids will know exactly what an angry dog or a scared cat looks like. Also noteworthy is Dr. Hunthausen's discussion of how to respond when confronted by a loose dog. Even if you don't have pets of your own, your children should watch this video to learn how to interact safely with other people's cats and dogs. (Ages 3 to 8)
--Tami Horiuchi