Most kids love small animals. But children should be taught never to pet a stray.

Hi, I'm Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children's Health Minute, presented by this station and TexCare -- connecting Texas families with children's health insurance for 18 dollars a month or less.

An animal may seem friendly, but that doesn't always mean it is. In fact, small animals bite over four million people a year and more than half of the injuries are among children. To protect your child, teach them never to catch, feed or approach a wild or stray animal.

Sick or injured animals may be more dangerous because they may be carrying a disease such as rabies. Rabies is found in the saliva of infected animals and can be spread when they bite or scratch. Remember: Some animals may look friendly, but if their owner isn't with them, your child shouldn't pet them.

Keep your kids healthy. Call TexCare at 1-800-647-6558 to apply or when it's time to renew your children's health care coverage. That's 1-800-647-6558.