City introduces dog-bite prevention program aimed at fifth and sixth graders

The City of Calgary's Animal Care and Pet Licensing team is proud to announce the launch of a new educational program, Wise Whiskers, designed to educate fifth and sixth graders on animal behaviour. This innovative initiative aims to reduce dog bites in Calgary by equipping children with the knowledge and skills necessary to interact safely with animals.

According to data from 2020 to 2022, there were 496 reported dog bites across the city, varying in severity from minor bites to bites resulting in major injuries. Wise Whiskers seeks to address this issue by providing comprehensive education to young students.

"We are excited to launch the Wise Whiskers program and provide students with valuable knowledge about animal behaviour," says Amanda Schultz, program coordinator at The City of Calgary. "By educating children at a young age, we hope to instill a culture of responsible pet ownership and reduce the incidence of dog bites in our community."

By the end of the session, students will be equipped to decipher animal communication, confidently navigate tricky situations and provide evidence to support their chosen actions.

The workshop is available for in-school programs for up to 32 students per session, tailored to fit each school's needs.

Schools interested in the Wise Whiskers program can find out more information by visiting calgary.ca/pets/wise-whiskers.

About The City of Calgary's Animal Care and Pet Licensing department:

The City of Calgary's Animal Care and Pet Licensing department is committed to promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring the well-being of animals in the community. Through education, enforcement and licensing initiatives, the department works to create a safe and healthy environment for both pets and people in Calgary.