It is important not to approach any animal without its owner. Only approach a pet that is with its owner when the owner gives permission. Demonstrate how to approach a pet with its owner. Using the stuffed animal on a leash, have a student hold the leash while you demonstrate how to approach the animal. Point out that you are petting the animal only after it has had enough time to be comfortable with you.
Students practice approaching pets.
Have students use the stuffed animal to practice asking permission to pet an animal and the proper way to approach an animal. Have students take turns being the one to hold the leash and being the one to approach. In each scenario, ask the students to suggest what might happen next and decide what they should do. Guide dogs and other helper dogs are special. They are working, and it is very important never to approach these working dogs.