How do you introduce your pet to your new baby? Contrary to what you might think, your pet is onto you!
They can see a difference with your belly growing and the general ambience of the home changing.Although your pets are baby-makers, having a baby of your own can be a little new for them.
A study showed that pets are regarded as part of the family in many homes. Despite this, they may not be too open to a new addition to the family. So, how can you prepare your pet for your new baby? Here are some tips you can adopt.
Introduce your pet to familiar baby sounds and smell
Understandably, newborns can be noisy, as they use sounds to communicate various feelings. However, these constant noises can be overwhelming for your pets. For example, dogs and cats are easily agitated, distressed or frustrated, which is why experts have recommended introducing familiar baby sounds and smells ahead of the baby’s arrival. You can use baby sound recordings together with your pet’s favourite treats to enable them to create a link. This increases the chances of your pet-welcoming your baby’s noise rather than getting upset or scared since it will indicate attention and treats.
Take them to daycare
You will likely get your hands full on the delivery day. Who will take care of your pets while you are away in the hospital and perhaps during the exhaustive few days after returning home? It would be helpful to have someone take charge of your pet care. It could be a family relative, a neighbour or a pet walker. This way, your pet wouldn’t feel ignored while the baby gets all the attention. Your pet, for example, a dog, needs regular exercise. If you are dealing with an energetic puppy, it would be helpful to find ways to safely burn off your dog’s energy.
Create a new normal
There will be changes for you and your pet when the baby arrives. Feeding or playtime will be affected, so why not get your dog used to that idea? Begin readjusting daily routines and exercise schedules before the baby gets home. Engaging in more quality activities can help cut the time you spend with your pet. For example, experts recommend taking along a baby stroller with a doll strapped in when walking the dog weeks to delivering. This way, the dog will appreciate that it’s no longer going to be just you two when you go for walks.
Monitor your pet and baby relationship
It is vital to never leave your pets alone with your baby. Always be present when your pet and baby are in the same space. Pets are unpredictable, and your baby’s erratic movement can frighten them. Accidents may happen; your dog may scratch your new baby, while your cat can lie on the baby’s face.
These are possible scenarios you would want to avoid at all costs. Constant supervision is critical for addressing this. You may likewise teach the baby to avoid pet foods, bowls or litter when they are old enough to crawl or walk.
