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Q. We want to take our 3-year-old on vacation to visit family who have dogs. What can I do to make sure it is a good experience for my child and the animals we visit?

A. The visit should be a proactive team effort. As a parent, it’s your job to advocate for your child, and as a pet parent, it’s your host’s job to advocate for their pet. By working together, you can avoid miscommunication and ensure a good experience. Before the visit, talk to your hosts and discuss the following questions.

Has the Dog Had a Pleasant Experience With Children in the Past?

If the dog has had numerous good experiences with children the same age as your child, then it’s likely he will also tolerate your child. If the dog has had little exposure to children (especially during his socialization period of 4 to 12 weeks of age), or has had a negative experience, use caution and watch for signs of stress in the dog.

Are There Any Rules We Should Discuss With Our Child Before the Visit?

Asking this question ahead of time can help the pet owner think about how they will manage specific situations. The following are general rules that should always be discussed.