Pet World: Visiting nurse makes simple request of dog owners
By Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency
Dear Cathy,
I am a pet lover. I have two kitties and enjoy my sister's two dogs.
I work as a visiting nurse. Our policy is that when a nurse, social worker, home health aide, or physical or occupational therapist comes to your home, you must put your dog in another room, or have the dog firmly under control with a leash.
We have had a number of nurses bitten on the job. I am one of them. It's an added stressor that is so readily preventable. Many people ask, “Are you afraid of dogs?” It's not about being afraid of dogs, it's about keeping everyone safe. Some dogs feel threatened when a stranger comes in the door and starts touching their owner or draws their blood.
Some people are offended when we ask them to secure their dog. “Why Fifi wouldn't hurt a fly!!” Fifi might feel exceedingly stressed and threatened at my presence though.
Could you talk about dog policies for those who visit homes, and why it's important for people to simply follow the rules?
-Grace, Allentown, Pennsylvania