21 Living with babies and children: There is no reason why dogs and babies should not co-exist happily and safely. If you are expecting a new baby start training your dog to stay out of any “no go” areas of the house as early as possible. Introduce new items such as cots, car seats, prams etc as early as possible in order to get the dog used to them. It also helps if you can get a recording of baby sounds so that when the baby arrives the dog will not find it strange. NEVER leave a baby alone with a dog however much you think you can trust the dog. ALWAYS praise and reward your dog when it behaves well around the baby so it will accept the baby is nice to have around. As children grow they should be taught to respect the dog, never touch it suddenly, especially if it is asleep, not to pull it’s tail   or poke little fingers in eyes and always to allow it to have it’s own space. Galgos often become a child’s best  friend. Generally: A greyhound collar should be put on high up the neck at the narrowest point and fit snugly. It is a good idea to have a house collar which remains on at all times—inside and outside  complete with ID tag which has your name, address  and telephone number.    It is a legal require- ment for an ID tag to be worn at all times. Of course you have to leave your dog at home while you go to work, go shopping or other places that a dog cannot go. When your dog is new to the family routine he needs to learn that when you go out you do come back so try not to leave him too long at first. Try going out and returning after about 5 minutes at first, then 10 minutes and then longer.   Most will learn quickly  but do      remember that they will need a     toilet break and cannot last all day. Give your dog proper care and you will have a friend for life.          Sometimes helps to have two.                                             Pat