New baby, meet furry friend!

Congratulations, it’s a boy! Or maybe a girl? No matter, you are expecting a baby and that is exciting!

From the moment you find out you are going to be parent, the planning begins. Diapers, bottles, crib…check. Delivery bag, strollers, pacifiers…check that off too. But in the exciting chaos of having a baby, one key thing seems to become overlooked on that checklist-your first baby (you know, that fluffy thing that sleeps at the end of your bed)?

That’s right, the family pet becomes lost in the shuffle. Sure, they get fed and walked. They are loved no less and you remain a tremendous pet parent, but have you prepared THEM for the change that is about to occur? They’ve watched as there has been a little less room on mom’s lap nowadays and many can sense that something is different. Yet, as you know, a baby is a BIG deal.

What happens when it is time to bring your precious gift home? Will your dog (or cat for that matter) care that there is a crying, pooping, attention-seeking machine in the house now?

Unfortunately, without a game plan before the big arrival, your furry friend may not have a chance. Many pets are surrendered to shelters because they just can’t seem to behave around the new addition. It could just be as simple as stealing the baby’s pacifier (which we promise makes for some pretty hilarious photos) or it could be much more serious.

Put your mind at ease and protect your family by creating a strategy to help your pet understand what is occurring. Here are a few simple steps to get you started-

1. Prepare the nursery- you’ve probably already begun the process of assembling the furniture like a crib. But make your pet a part of the process. Let them explore the room and all of the new sights.
2. Create a safe place- it’s not a surprise, but babies can be loud. Give your pet a place in a quiet area of the house to relax and get some rest. Create a comfy bed or crate that is their very own.
3. Introduce new smells-one of the ways to introduce a baby without the risk, is to introduce just their smell. After the baby is delivered, have a family member bag and seal the first set of clothing and bring it home from the hospital. Open the bag for your pet to sniff and explore. This will make them more prepared for what is to come in the days ahead.
4. Meet and greet- take introductions slowly! ALWAYS be present when your pet is around your baby. This ensures that there are no accidents. Watch your pet’s body language carefully and assess how comfortable they are. Reward good behavior and give them praise after meeting the baby.
5. Give them attention-the baby is going to take up much of your time, but don’t forget about pet. Take time to throw a ball or pet them. Maybe even take the baby for a walk in the stroller and have your pet tag along
6. Give them their own toys-many of the baby’s new things are going to be intriguing to your pet. Keep your pet’s interest by giving them their own foods and treats. If your pet does decide to take the baby’s belongings, replace the item with a more appropriate toy. By teaching your pet early on, problems with sharing later down the road will be diminished.
   7.  Growing up pet friendly - while much of the expectation is placed on the pet to accept the new change, that does not mean that you should not also teach your child.  Show them how to respect the pet's space.  Pets may lash out when fur is pulled or a child is in their face, and guess what...it's not their fault.  They are not trying to be mean; they are simply trying to tell the child what is acceptable. 
   
   You love your pet and your soon-to-be baby. There is no question that you want to do what is best by both of them. Help each acclimate to the other and problems CAN be prevented. Again, congratulations on the new baby!