SCHOOLCHILDREN across Barnsley will receive a series of workshops on how to stay safe around dogs thanks to a council collaboration.

In partnership with the Dogs Trust, a series of school workshops aimed at educating children on how to stay safe are being delivered by them within the borough.

Children’s behaviour can directly impact their safety around dogs.

That’s why the council has asked Dogs Trust to help protect local children by delivering dog safety workshops to help them behave safely around all dogs, especially ones they know and interact with at home, as this is where dog bites are most likely to occur.

Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “Christmas is a time of year where people may be buying a cat or dog as a present, and we want to remind residents that pets are not just for Christmas, they’re for life.

“Being a responsible pet owner isn’t just about making sure they’re fed and walked, it’s also about making sure they’re made to feel safe and protected from harm.

“We’re committed to educating families about the safety of pets, particularly around Christmas when routines change.

“Many children live with and love dogs, and this initiative empowers children with the knowledge and skills to have happy, safe relationships with dogs both at home and in other social settings.

“The goal is to instil responsible ownership at a young age, ultimately reducing the number of stray and unwanted cats and dogs in the future.”