Until now, your four-legged friend has been your only “baby,” but once your new addition arrives, he will have to share his home and your attention with a needy bundle of joy. Adjusting to life with a baby will bring big changes for your pet, so prepare in advance to make the transition as smooth as possible.

 

Preparing your pet for the new arrival

A sudden change in routine when the baby comes home can cause your pet to resent his new family member. Instead of springing a new way of life on your pet when you bring the baby home, make gradual changes in the months leading up to the big day. If sleeping schedules, feeding times, or walk routines will be different, start making those changes now so they become his new norm.

Changing your home’s layout—and rules that apply to it—can be stressful to your pet’s previously predictable life. Set up the crib before the due date and decide what rules will apply to the nursery. Cats like to nap in cribs and bassinets—place nets overtop baby’s sleeping areas to make it clear to your feline friend that these areas are off-limits. If your dog will not be allowed in the nursery, set up a baby gate in the doorway so he knows to stay out.

Introduce new smells and sounds before the baby comes home. Play a recording of baby noises to get your pet used to hearing a crying baby. If the sounds seem to stress your pet out, use positive conditioning to reward him with treats and attention when you play the recording. Use baby wash and lotion on yourself so your furry friend will associate these new smells with you and become used to them. Before your newborn’s homecoming, send home a blanket with her smell on it so your pet can get used to the new scent.

The boisterous nature and constant movement of children can make pets who have had little exposure to them anxious. Seek out places you can take your pet to get him used to being around kids. Walk past the local park or playground on your regular strolls. You can also visit family members who have small children and introduce your pet to them while he is on a leash.

You might also consider taking your dog to obedience classes. Knowledge of basic commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” “off,” and “leave it” will become important when he accompanies you and the baby on a walk or when the baby’s toys fall onto the floor. He may also have developed bad habits that will become problematic once a baby is part of the family. It might seem cute now that your pooch jumps up to greet you when you come through the door, but this behavior will become frustrating when you have a baby in your arms.

After you bring baby home

When you arrive home with your new family member, have someone else carry her into the house so you can greet your pet and lavish him with attention and praise. Although you will be busy and tired, take time each day to pamper your pet. Take your pooch on a short walk or throw the ball for him in the yard. Cats may be content to snuggle on the couch with your undivided attention. Set aside a stash of special treats for the weeks after the baby arrives, and dole them out when you are busy or the baby is crying.

Remember that your pet does not understand how delicate the baby is and will need to learn how to interact with her. Pets should never be left unattended with a baby—their inquisitive nature may cause them to inadvertently harm her. A cat may jump into the bassinet and lay on the baby’s face without realizing he is doing something wrong, and a dog can easily knock over a swing or baby seat.

Create a space your pet can retreat to if he is feeling anxious around the baby. A quiet room with a special blanket and toys can help him feel secure. This can also be a place you can take your pet when you need an animal-free zone for a short period of time. By making this area comforting and desirable, it will feel like a treat, not a punishment, to spend time there. As the baby grows into a walking toddler, make sure your pet’s special area is off-limits to your little one so it truly is a safe haven for him.

Crawling and walking babies are naturally drawn to pet bowls. They love to play with—and often taste—the kibble and splash in the water. This can make your pet anxious and he may even become territorial with his food. Teach young children that food bowls are a no-no—especially when a dog is eating—or move them to an area your little one cannot access.

 

Expecting a new arrival? Call our office at 828-754-4545 for advice on preparing for baby.