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There are many practical ways you can help your pet adjust to the transition of having a new baby. Many of these changes can be made months before the baby's arrival. Here are just some of the ways you can help:
- Keep your pet healthy. Make sure your pet is current with his vet exams and vaccinations.
- If she's not already used to it, get her used to nail trims long before baby arrives.
- Enroll in a training class with your dog especially. This will not only help you to safely and humanely control your dog's behavior, but it will increase your bond as well.
- Sprinkle some baby powder or baby oil on your skin from time to time to help your pet adjust to new smells.
- Talk to your pet about the baby; use the baby's name if you've already picked it.
- Encourage friends or family with infants to visit the home. Supervise all of these interactions.
- Spay or neuter your pet, not only to make them calmer but for their general health.
- If your pet displays fear or anxiety, now is the time to get help from an animal behavior specialist.
- Talk to both your vet and your physician if you have concerns about baby-pet interaction.
- If your pet nibbles, pounces or swats at you or others, learn to redirect that behavior to appropriate objects.
- Train your pet to sit by you on the floor until you invite him into your lap, as there will soon be a newborn in that spot.
- Play recordings of a baby crying, turn on the mechanical infant swing, and use the rocking chair. Get your pet used to baby sounds, and make these positive experiences for your pet by offering a treat or playtime.
- To discourage your pet from jumping on the baby's crib and changing table, apply double-stick tape to the furniture.
- start putting up the baby gate now if the baby's room will be off-limit to your pet. Use a see-through one such as a removable gate to allow the pet to feel less isolated.
- Carry a baby doll around for a few days. Take it in the stroller when you walk the dog, to get him used to routine activities. Change the diaper on the doll, and bathe it. These may also be good practice for you.
- Finally, plan ahead to make sure your pet gets proper care while you are giving birth.
| Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It's not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may receive from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor. |
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