How do I help my son with his fear...

[CheeseAndBunion]

About a month ago my 4 year old son was bitten on the back of his leg by a dog. It came out of the blue and whilst the dog didn't break the skin my son was bruised really badly and frightened beyond belief. He has now, understandably, gone from a child who was cautious but not fearful of dogs to one who is totally and utterly terrifed. He literally freezes every time a dog comes near (no matter the size) and then sobs and screams in terror. Both my DH and I are trying to manage his fear but it's breaking my heart watching him get so distressed in the park etc when one comes near. Do any of you have tips for how I could help him? I have a couple of friends with dogs and was thinking of taking him there soon but I'm wary of doing anything that makes his anxiety worse. Please help oh wise mumsnetters, I just don't know what to do for the best.

[TheMagnificentBathykolpian]

Perhaps get professional help? Someone who knows how to properly deal with phobias and can go about it in the right way? (I mean because they are professionally trained in that area) Someone who can counsel him and reintroduce him to dogs slowly?