This Indiana Tragedy Should Never Have Happened: A Wake-Up Call for Every Parent and Pet Owner
- myscoopster
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 15
A recent tragic dog attack, has left a family shattered and a community grieving. Police say a 2-year-old boy was left unattended at an unlicensed home daycare; during that time he accessed the backyard, opened a kennel containing two Rottweilers, and was fatally attacked. The operator has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and second-degree cruelty to children.
What we know (and why it matters)
Investigators described the incident as preventable and rooted in negligence by the caregiver.
The daycare was allegedly unlicensed; in Georgia, programs providing group care must be licensed or formally exempt through the state’s Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL).
While this tragedy happened in Georgia, it’s a sobering reminder for families and caregivers everywhere, including right here in Indiana, about the importance of supervision, safety, and licensing when children and pets share the same space.
Safety first: clear, practical steps
These aren’t theory, they’re everyday habits that reduce risk around any dog, in any home.
1) Supervision is non-negotiable.
Young children should never be left alone with a dog regardless of breed, size, or history. Even a calm family dog can be startled by toddler movement/noise.
2) Create true separation zones.
Use closed, latched doors or baby-gates to separate kids and dogs during naps, cooking, pickups/drop-offs, or high-activity moments. Provide the dog a quiet “retreat room” where children are not allowed.
3) Secure crates/kennels, and the room they’re in.
Crates should be in an area inaccessible to small children. Close and lock kennel doors when dogs are unsupervised; use hardware a toddler can’t open. (Crates can be a safe den for dogs when used properly, but only adults should operate latches.)
4) Learn dog body language.
Teach adults (and older kids) to spot stress signals: stiff posture, “whale eye,” tucked tail, lip-licking, yawning, pinned ears, or low growls. When you see them, end the interaction and give the dog space.
5) Set kid rules.
No hugging, climbing on, or startling a dog; no tug-of-war or wrestling; always ask an adult before approaching any dog; let the dog sniff first and pet gently on the shoulder/chest not the face.
6) Build an emergency plan.
Post simple steps where any adult can see: remove the dog to a closed room, call 911 for serious injury, provide first aid, and seek medical care for any bite (infection/rabies concerns).
For parents & home providers
In Indiana, all licensed childcare programs fall under the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) through the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL).
OECOSL oversees:
Licensing of childcare homes and centers
Inspections for safety, cleanliness, and supervision
Background checks and training for caregivers
Ratio requirements (children-to-staff limits)
Health and safety plans including animal control and supervision
If a person cares for more than five unrelated children, they are required to be licensed or registered through the state. Even church-based or “unlicensed ministries” must be registered with OECOSL and follow certain health and safety standards.
To check if a provider is licensed or registered, parents can visit:
(This post is informational, not legal advice. Check the Indiana State rules or consult an attorney for specifics.)
Talking with your kids
Keep it short and clear: “We love dogs, and we respect dogs. We never touch a dog without an adult’s okay. If a dog walks away, we give space. Gentle hands, quiet voices.” Reinforce often; toddlers learn by repetition.
Scoopster’s commitment to safety Myscoopster.com
Our team works around dogs every day. When we service a yard, we’re mindful of:
Gates that don’t latch, loose panels, or low fencing
Unsecured crates/kennels in high-traffic areas
Toys/food bowls that can trigger guarding behavior
Communication gaps (e.g., who has the dog when children are present)
Our hearts are with the Valdosta family and first responders affected by this unimaginable loss.
Primary source: Associated Press reporting on the Valdosta case.
Additional guidance referenced: AAP (HealthyChildren) tips; AVMA dog-bite prevention; AKC resources; Georgia DECAL rules/exemptions.
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