Can I Pat that Dog?

A children’s picture book

Fostering dogs over the past 3 years, has given me the opportunity to meet and interact with so many different canine personalities. And, contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are the same. Not all dogs like pats and not all dogs like play. Some are friendly and some aren’t. They tell us all this very clearly, but we don’t always know how to listen. I wanted to give dogs a bigger voice. That is when Can I pat that dog? was born.

Educating children on the best ways to interact with dogs is vital to ensuring the safety of both child and dog. Can I pat that dog? Takes the reader through a series of interactions and scenarios to help children understand elements of dog behaviour and body language, and the best ways to interact with unfamiliar dogs. Aiming to be both educational and entertaining, this digitally illustrated picture book takes the form of a social story, so it is also helpful for children with autism or developmental delay. A great book for everyone who loves dogs and those who don’t… yet.

Words and Illustrations: Alice Shaw