PINE RIVER — Pine River-Backus Elementary School students learned about interacting with animals thanks to a visit from Paws + Claws Rescue and Resort, Hackensack.

The animal shelter brought dogs to the school as part of their mission to educate youth on being responsible, respectful and safe around animals.

Students learned the rules of approaching a dog:

Ask first: Check with a parent and the dog's owner before approaching any animal.

The invitation: Pat your leg to invite the dog to come over to you.

Pet the right spot: Avoid petting the head; pet places like shoulders and under the chin.

Give them a choice: Pet for three seconds, then pause. If the dog leans in, it wants more. If it moves away, give it space.

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