By: Jonathan Whitbourne
Worried about how Fido and Fluffy will react to your new baby? Here are some quick tips from the Humane Society of the United States on transitioning pets to accept baby.
Before Your Baby Arrives …
- Take your pet to the veterinarian for a routine health exam and necessary vaccination.
- Spay or neuter your pet if you haven't done this already. Sterilized animals are traditionally calmer and less likely to bite.
- Trim your pet's nails regularly.
- Familiarize your pet with baby-related noises. For instance, play recordings of a baby crying or turn on the mechanical infant swing. Make these positive experiences for your pet by offering a treat or playtime.
- Block the entrance to the baby's room with a sturdy removable gate high enough to keep your pet from jumping over it. By doing this, you will teach your pet that the baby's room is off limits.
- Apply baby lotion or baby oil to your skin so your pet becomes familiar with these new smells.
- Carry around a swaddled baby doll to help your pet get used to the real thing.
- Before you leave the hospital, find something with the baby's scent on it (such as a blanket) and send it home for your pet to sniff. By getting to know the newborn's scent, your pet will be better prepared for baby's homecoming.
When You Bring Your Baby Home …
- When you come home from the hospital, have someone else carry the baby into your home so you can properly greet your excited pet. That way, your pet won't think he is being neglected in favor of the new arrival.
- Encourage your pet to sit calmly with you next to the baby. Reward your pet with treats for appropriate behavior.
- Never force your pet near the baby, and always supervise any interaction. If the first introduction does not go well, don't force it. Wait a while, then try again.
- Shower your pet with affection. Schedule at least 5 to 10 minutes a day to pet, groom and play with your pet. Animals live by routines and can become upset or irritable if their schedules change dramatically, so be sure to give them proper attention and care.
- Refrain from giving your pet toys that resemble baby toys. Your pet may become confused and anxious if it sees the baby playing with a familiar toy.
- Use strong verbal commands to teach your pet that it is not OK to nip, growl or hiss at the baby.
- Do not let your pet sleep in the same room as your baby. A pet can inadvertently smother an unattended infant.
Remember, try to keep interaction between your baby and pet positive, and reward your pet for good behavior. With proper training, supervision and adjustments, you, your new baby and your pet should be able to live together safely as one big happy family.
Jonathan Whitbourne is a former editor for Parenthood.com.
© Parenthood.com, used with permission.
