Every year hundreds of animals are sent to new homes or animal shelters when the new baby arrives. Myths and false information about both cats and dogs frighten parents into giving up the friend who could be a warm and loving companion protector of the new child. Before considering a new home for your pet, check out the options.

As a new parent there are some things you can do to make it easier for your cat or dog to cope with the introduction of the newest family member.

All animals suffer from stress if their routine is disrupted and they feel they are no longer important. A cat, once the centre of your life, may feel left out if all your attention is suddenly focused on the new baby. A dog may treat the baby like a puppy, using his mouth and paws to show the new addition who the dominant dog is.

Steps

There are some steps you can take to make sure your pet readily accepts the new baby.

Keep changes to the pet’s routine and living area as minimal as possible. Big changes, such as redecorating a room, should be done early, so the animal has time to adjust to the new surroundings. You can use this time to teach the cat not to sleep in the crib.

Bring baby blankets covered with the baby’s smell home before you bring the baby. That will give both dogs and cats a chance to become familiar with the new scents, and to recognize it is normal. You can also use this time to familiarize your pets to the smell of any powders or lotions you intend to use.

Spend time with your pet and the baby together. Speak to the pet as you feed or change diapers. This will reassure the animal he is still part of your life and that the baby is now part of his life.

Play recording of a baby’s cries. This will help the pet recognize and get used to the sound. Petting them as they hear the cries diminishes their anxiety.

Let your pet investigate the baby’s belongings. They may be new and interesting!

If this is your first baby, let your pet become acquainted with other children prior to the new arrival.

Make sure your pet has a place to go which is quiet and secluded. It will give him a place to rest away from all the excitement. Do not allow your pet to sleep with your baby.

Never leave the baby and your pet alone, even after the baby is crawling or walking. This will protect your child from an exuberant pet and protect your pet from an enthusiastic child.

Many suspected allergies to pets are really allergies to other things like laundry detergents or new foods. If your child shows symptoms of allergies, consult an allergist for advice.

All of these things can help make your home one in which children and pets can live in happiness and harmony. Remember, your child will have a loyal friend for life if you start them out right together.

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Article courtesy of the Humane Society of Ottawa-Carleton (HSOC).