Prepare Your Pet for Your Bundle of Joy

By Jan Mader

You’ve made a list and checked it at least twice. Your nursery is ready to go. But have you forgotten something that is very important?

If you have a dog or cat in your home you have! Your pet is used to you and your spouse and your normal everyday routines. Changes are difficult. It’s your responsibility to prepare your pet for a new baby!

What can you do? First of all, make sure your dog responds to basic commands. Sit! Stay! and Down! can become invaluable. It you are having difficulty teaching these commands, take your dog to a basic obedience class in your area. These classes are usually inexpensive but very worthwhile.

Before your baby is born:

• Encourage your pet to sit quietly on the floor beside you.

• Invite your friends with infants and children to your home. See how your pet reacts.

• Purchase a recording of baby noises. A crying baby can strike terror into both dogs and cats! A recording will introduce these new sounds to your pet so it has time to adjust.

• Get your pet used to the new smells that will come with your baby. Sprinkle baby powder around the nursery. Rub baby oil or lotion on your own skin.

• Plan ahead to make sure that your pet gets proper care while you are at the hospital. Every plan you make will make the changes easier for your pet.

After your baby is born:

• Let your pet smell something from your baby while you are still in the hospital!

• When you come home, have your husband or friend carry your new baby into the house to a room away from your pet. This will enable you to give your pet a calm greeting and positive pats!

Annette Neff, dog behaviorist and trainer, says, “After the baby has arrived, the baby will be the focus of your attention. This could become a source of distress for your pet. Make sure you set aside special times when your cat or dog has your undivided attention. Take a walk, play with your pet, or just spend some cuddle time. Remember, no matter how well adjusted your pet seems to be, do not leave your pet and baby unsupervised!”