Preparing Your Pet for a New Baby
Becoming a parent is one of the most transformative experiences you'll have; it changes how you see things and your day-to-day schedule. This can be a bit overwhelming for some, but your mindset will shift as soon as you bring your baby home. While it's important to take time to prepare for your new baby's arrival by reading the baby books, setting up the nursery, babyproofing your home, and buying the essentials, you may have one step you're overlooking: preparing your pet for the arrival of a new baby. If it's your first baby, it's important to take the time to learn how to make sure your dog or cat is ready for this big change.
How to Prepare Your Dog or Cat Before the Baby Arrives
Whether you have a cat or dog, getting your pets ready for your baby to arrive is an important step in growing your family. To help ensure a smooth transition, here are some tips for preparing your pet before introducing the baby.
Introduce Your Pet to Baby Sounds and New Smells
Cats and dogs rely heavily on their sense of hearing and smell, so try to give your pets time to get familiar with the upcoming sensory changes. As many people know, newborns aren't necessarily the quietest addition to a home. They bring new and unfamiliar sounds and scents that can be unsettling for your pet, and a crying baby might startle animals that aren't used to these types of baby noises. So, take some time to start easing into the transition by introducing some new baby smells and sounds ahead of time.
Before you bring your newborn baby home from the hospital, introduce your pet to new baby smells, such as baby lotion and powders. After delivery, bring home baby clothes they've worn so your dog knows their unique scent. Allow your pet to sniff these items under supervision, and always use positive reinforcement to create a good experience.
To help prepare your pets for the unfamiliar noises of a newborn, start playing recordings of baby noises, such as cooing and laughter, at a low volume initially. You will also want to use some recordings of a baby crying to help your cat or dog with the arrival of these new sounds. Gradually increase the volume to help your pet acclimate to these sounds without stress. Again, reward your pet with treats and positive reinforcement. Allow your dog (or cat) to investigate new sounds and pair them with a smell to help them create an association between the two.
Since most cats are usually less curious about these things, give your dog more time to learn these smells and sounds before your baby is born.
Try to Shift Pet Routines Gradually
Pets (dogs especially) tend to thrive on routine and become anxious when their schedule is suddenly disrupted. So, to help get your dog ready for the upcoming changes with the new baby, try to start moving into new routines early on.
Walking your dog is a great way to release pent-up energy and keep them well-behaved. However, if you usually go out for a walk at the same time every day, changes can lead to anxiety and acting out. So, if you know that you will have to change walk times, add some variety now. Make small changes, such as walking your dog 10-15 minutes earlier or later each day until the new routine is established. If they can't adjust to your new routine, or you don't think you'll have time, you could also consider a dog walker for the first few months of your newborn's life. Changes in feeding schedules should also be made gradually.
If your dog is used to a lot of attention and affection, you may need to make some adjustments beforehand. As much as it might pain you, try to gradually decrease the attention and playtime your pet receives to help them get used to the change. Encourage your pet to spend time alone with toys or in a comfortable place so they learn to entertain themselves.
Add Some Variety to Pet Care Responsibilities
Caring for family pets sometimes falls on one person's shoulders, leading to anxiety when a new person steps in. Let your pet get used to variations in care by having family members or friends come over and interact with your fur baby. This way, when you need help, your animals will feel comfortable around new caretakers.
Establish Boundaries to Prepare Your Dog
Teaching your dog (or cat) new boundaries is another essential step for your pet’s safety and that of the baby. If your dog is used to jumping up or tends to play a bit rough, it's time to dial it back. Additionally, if you don't want your dog on the furniture once your baby comes home, you need to start making those changes now. Establishing new boundaries takes time, so preparing your family pets in advance is essential.
Put Up Baby Gates to Create Barriers
Ideally, you'll also want to set up some new, pet-free zones. Decide which areas of your home, such as the baby’s nursery, will be off-limits to your pet, and begin enforcing these rules well before the baby arrives. You can use baby gates to separate your dog and baby, but closed doors work best for cats.
Baby gates create safe zones where your baby can play without interruption from your pet. They also provide your pet with a quiet, undisturbed space. Baby gates are also great for helping pets ease into the relationship. Since they're not solid, your dog will be able to see and smell your baby without making direct contact, reducing the chance of overwhelming either of them.
Begin Training Your Dog Early
Training your dog for the arrival of a newborn needs to be done correctly and with enough time to let them learn the right commands. Basic things like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” and “go to your place” can be very useful and can help keep your dog well-mannered around a newborn. If your dog isn’t already trained in these commands, start working on them immediately. Consistent training helps manage your dog’s behavior and reduces the risk of incidents. Consider professional behavioral training if you're unsure how to properly prepare a dog for a newborn.
Schedule a Visit with the Vet
Finally, take the time to schedule a visit with your veterinarian. This will ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, and other necessary health care. You can also discuss behavioral concerns with your vet and get advice or recommendations on preparing for a baby.
How to Introduce Your Pet When Your Baby Comes Home
Preparing your pets ahead of time is one thing, but introducing them once your baby comes home also requires caution. The right introductions can help create a harmonious, loving relationship between your new baby and pet. However, even though you might know your dog or cat's mannerisms, remember that this introduction needs to be done carefully and shouldn't be rushed.
Make Introductions Slowly
The first meeting between your pet and your new baby should be handled carefully to ensure a positive start. Before the big introduction, make sure your dog has been walked and is calm. Wearing them out ahead of time can make a big difference in anxiety and their energy levels. Then, when you first arrive home with your baby, have another adult take the baby into another room. Allow your pet to greet you first without the baby to help get that initial excitement out of the way.
Once your pet is calm, hold your baby in your arms and sit in a quiet room. Allow your pet to approach at their own pace to investigate the baby. During this time, speak calmly and reassuringly and offer praise and treats for calm behavior. Never force your pet to get close to the baby. At first, keep interactions short and gradually increase their time together.
Ensure Every Interaction is Supervised
Never leave a baby unsupervised with your pet, especially during the first few weeks together. Even a well-mannered or gentle pet can react unpredictably to new stimuli, so try to look for any stress or discomfort during their introduction. Give your dog or cat positive reinforcement for calm and gentle behavior near the baby.
As Your Baby Gets Older, Teach Them Respect for Your Pet's Personal Space
Then, as your baby grows and starts to explore the world on their own, take the time to teach them how to interact respectfully with your pet. Show your child how to touch your pets gently using soft strokes and never to pull on their ears or tail. Make it clear that your dog has certain safe spaces they're not allowed to enter and continue to supervise play as your baby grows.
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