The scenario is far too common. The happy, expecting couple
stroll into the clinic with their four-legged child for her Annual Wellness
Exam. The first born of the family is healthy and has a great check-up so I
turn my attention to the parents who are expecting their first two-legged
child. “Have you starting thinking about how you will introduce your new baby?”
All of the sudden, the happy couple becomes the bewildered couple and stares at
me with the “deer in the headlights” look. I know it’s time to have “the talk”.
Bringing home baby to a pet who has ‘ruled the roost’ for years can be done. We
have a few guidelines for you.Many soon-to-be parents don’t realize that
without proper precautions and planning, their new bundle of joy will be their
pet’s worst nightmare and is even at risk to be harmed by their pet.
It is important that every pet owner who is expecting a
child follow a few easy steps to ensure the new addition to the family is a
happy addition.
1) Allow your pet to becomes used to “baby stuff” before
the big day comes. While babies themselves are terrifying enough for pets, all
their stuff can be even worse. Strollers, cribs, toys, high chairs, and car
seats are all brand new items for your pet to adjust to. Stock the nursery
early and allow your pets time to get used to all the new stuff before their is
a screaming child who is taking all your time and energy sitting in them. Even
going on walks with the empty stroller or having bonding time in the baby-less
nursery can put your pets at ease. If your pet is anxious or scared around new
noises, play recordings of baby noises in the months leading up to the
delivery. Start at low levels that your pet doesn’t react to and slowly work up
to “real life” levels. Do positive things with your pets such as eating, giving
treats, brushing, and playing during these noise desensitization sessions to
allow your pet to become comfortable with the change.
2)Teach a calm, controlled behavior. Many dogs get excited
around new people and like to jump up on them to greet them. Teach your dog to
“sit” or “lay” and make them do it before they receive anything (food, treats,
toys, affection, etc.). Think of it as teaching your dog to say “please” before they get something they
want. Pets with good manners are less likely to injure children or be scolded
by adults who are holding children. Remember, we want having a baby to be a
happy experience for the pets and constantly getting scolded because the baby
is around will lead to further fear and anxiety for your pet.
To read more on this
story, click here: Bringing Home Baby to a Dog’s World
