Dog Scout Evie waits for a command from owner Amy Long. Members of Tyler Dog Scouts Troop 225 visited the Tyler Public Library Friday to show kids how to show off some tricks, explain how to approach a new dog, and how to use clicker training. (photo by Sarah A. Miller/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

 

Cute, furry pets can be difficult to resist, but members of a local animal group said it’s important kids know not all dogs are approachable. 

Members of Dog Scouts of America Troop 225 shared pet safety tips with a group of children Friday morning at the Tyler Public Library. 

According to troop leader Natalie Fletcher, the event was intended to increase knowledge of how to correctly approach an unfamiliar dog and how to pet them in a way that lessens the chance of getting bit or scaring the dog.

“We have done many events in the past that allow dogs … but this was the first time we did a public event with this many kids,” Ms. Fletcher said, adding that the public events also give dogs an opportunity to learn self control and good behavior.

In addition to training the public on appropriate interaction with dogs, the Dog Scouts group offers owners tools for learning to train their pups. Fletcher said the club offers a variety of activities, and just as with common children’s scouting programs, the dogs enrolled in Dog Scouts get to earn badges for their accomplishments. 

Badges can be earned for everything from hiking to boating safety to first aid. 

“Dog Scout Troop 225 has been active for about three years, and we like to let people know the correct way to use positive reinforcement for their dogs to learn tricks,” Fletcher said. 

Fletcher’s dog, Xena, a black scottish terrier, showed off some of what she’s learned in the program by running through a tunnel and answering to Fletcher’s commands. She was rewarded by having her belly rubbed by the children. 

Other activities offered by the Dog Scouts include Sunday evening group hikes at Faulkner Park, as well as other family-friendly events that welcome the whole family, especially dogs. These have included barbecues, pull parties and even a doggy Easter egg hunt. 

The children learned about dog safety, had a chance to visit with Scruff McGruff and the pups had a chance to show off a few of their new tricks.

The Dog Scouts meet for group hikes at 7:30 p.m. every Sunday across from the pond at Faulkner Park. Fletcher said dog owners walk the dogs and socialize them. 

There currently are 35 members, but Fletcher said the group is eager for more to join their group.

For more information on Dog Scout Troop 225, visit the group’s page at meetup.com. 

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