Flees and Dogs in Home Daycare

[Carole's Daycare]

I have always had pets in my home. My 100 lb German Shepherd, Atlas, has been here since I started daycare. I let people know ahead of time and they meet him during interviews. Obviously, some people are really uncomfortable and choose another daycare. We are required in MN to get them shots and not have them in the food prep area etc. We also are required to make sure litter boxes are inaccessible to children and animal excement is not in the kids play area. (Poop Scoop the yard or have them trained like mine to a specific area that is kept cleaned up.) I understand people's discomfort, since my daughter, now 17 , was attacked and bitten by a dog when she was 5. the dog was kept chained up & not properly socialized- so when Kat was brought over by the dog's family to meet him the dog lunged and bit her on the face. We made specific effort in the selection of our pet- for temperament from a reputeable breeder that guaranteed and had his temperament tested, and in our training and socializing of him. We have never had flees here, but I have friends who had small flee infestations in their pets. Apparently they noticed right away and had the pet treated and the problem was quickly resolved. It is my understanding that animals and even kids can pick them up outside and bring them in, as well as being carried in on clothing, diaper bags. If this service animal DID get fleas, which could happen to anyone, a quick trip to the groomers for a dip & bath and a treatment of the home would rectify the situation. Like catching lice or anything else, it does not necessarily mean the owners are unclean or the dog is not clean and cared for. It is unfortunate the child had a medical problem, whether from fleas or not, or from the daycare home or other place. Regardless, in my experience, parents that yell and complain the loudest are usually blaming someone else to cover for their own failings. Often the real problem is disagreements over policies or money, or defensiveness regarding discipline issues or something. Good luck to the parent- I hope you find a pet free home you are happy in. To the provider- and fellow animal parent- best of luck- if necessary take dog to groomers or vet and post a confirmation from them that the dog is pest free to protect your reputation and reassure your parents and licenser.

[gbcc]

Very well said Carole's Daycare.

I live in NY and have 2 dogs. I have been registered and am not licensed by the state. Not one state employee has ever asked me about my dogs. They did not require vaccinations or state specific areas they may/may not be. I found this odd since NY is the biggest pain in the butt when it comes to interferring with tax payers lives. That being said I think it goes to show that it really is a personal opinion on whether animals should be around children. I absolutely understand why some people are concerned regarding animals, especially dogs, being around your children. I personally feel if you trust the provider to care for your child, you should also trust her to make the appropriate decisions regarding the animals being around your child.