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Mom facing internet backlash for photo of child on leash defends her decision
She definitely makes a few solid points worth considering.
Michael Dabu
02.18.21

A child’s safety is a parent’s top priority.

Parents have their own ways of protecting their children and, if needed, they’ll take extra measures just to make sure that they are safe. Call them overprotective but that’s just how a parent’s mind works. They will never settle for second-best when it comes to their children.

However, with all the safety measures that already exist, one has become a hot topic of debate. Thankfully, one brave mother finally unseals her lips and speaks up in defense of going the extra mile to ensure a child’s safety- especially in public places.

Flickr
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Flickr

Desiree Hoye’s intriguing photo and statement spark argument.

Desiree Hoye has come under discussion after she shared photos and testimony with Love What Matters about why she keeps her child on a backpack leash. She starts her story by admitting that there was a time when she would say:

“Before I became a mom I would have been the person that said, ‘I will NEVER put my child on a leash, he’s not a dog!’

Flickr
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Flickr

The world is in constant change and has taken a scary turn when it comes to kids- and children need protection.

As time went on, Hoye noticed a developing trend in the news. Every year saw new stories of tragedies that could have been avoided if young children didn’t get away from their parents. She said that over 2,000 children go missing every day from accidents involving animal enclosures to abductions that can happen in seconds.

Desiree Hoye
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Desiree Hoye

With these alarming facts, Desiree Hoye asks the critics back.

Considering these threats, Hoye questions if parents and guardians can really blame her for wanting that extra layer of security for her child. She points to how prone younger children are to wandering off on their own and the panic that comes from a missing child as more than a good reason to keep her child on a leash.

Flickr
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Flickr

Why do some people argue about leashes on kids?

As Hoye said:

“‘I had someone comment today, ‘Look at her putting her kid on a leash…how terrible.’”

Critics share concerns over whether harnesses are actually safe for children. Physically, there hasn’t been conclusive evidence that children have been injured by the proper use of harnesses. But likewise, there isn’t definite evidence that harnesses and leashes prevent child injury leaving it a personal choice. Some critics are concerned with the psychological aspects, especially when children notice dubious stares or associate leashes with pets.

Flickr
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Flickr

Despite all the questions from here and there, Desiree Hoye chooses safety above everything else – because she is a mom.

Even considering the risks, parents like Hoye consider leashes to be worth it. Angry stares or nasty comments from others does not affect their decision to take an extra step to protect their children. As Hoye says:

“Today and every day, I choose safety because I love my children more than anything in this entire world. I will gladly take a few awkward looks from strangers over never seeing his precious face again.”

Pexels
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Pexels

What are the things that a parent must consider before trying leashes on their kids?

The choice between using and not using a child-leash is ultimately a personal one. But, if you are considering child-leashes, then here are a few things to consider.

  • Choose harnesses or backpack style leashes. Wrist or hand-hold leashes require child cooperation which can lead to problems.
  • Make sure you read instructions carefully. Proper use of a harness or backpack prevents unnecessary risk of injury.
  • Make sure the harness or backpack fits properly. It shouldn’t be too tight to be comfortable nor too loose to be reliable.
  • Keep an eye out for recalls with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Also be sure to check reviews from other parents and guardians.
Pexels
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Pexels

It’s not overprotecting if you are just trying to ensure your child’s safety. At the end of the day, it’s your call as their parent, you know what’s going to be best for your child, wouldn’t you agree? It’s about time that we look at the brighter side of it before we call on our judgment. After all, we are talking about kids’ safety.

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