HomeYou lucky Dog you, that is until baby comes along. Is it possible for pets and babies to co-exist in peace! From every corner I received advice on how things will have to change with our dog once the baby comes along. Everyone said there is no way they can live together in the same house without baby getting sick or worse still being bitten. How wrong they all were!
There is no doubt about it, you certainly need to take great care when mixing pets with babies and you should definitely never leave a baby or child alone with any animal. However, we couldn't have got a better playmate for our little toddler. He absolutely adores our little white powder puff.
There are some tips though to ensure that all goes smoothly when you bring baby home from the hospital. If you do decide that your indoor pet is to become an outdoor pet, you need to make this change well in advance of your baby being born. It is important that your pet doesn't feel resentment towards your baby. Therefore, start getting your pet used to being outside at least 6 months before the baby is born so that they don't associate the baby with being put outside.
You can also help your pet get used to the scent of your baby before you bring them home from the hospital. Purchase a cheap bunny rug and wrap your baby in it while at the hospital for one night, then bring it home and give it to your pet. This way your pet will get used to the smell of your new baby and they won't be so anxious or curious once baby finally comes home.
Also, make sure you give your pet attention when baby is awake so they know they don't have to wait until baby goes to sleep to get any playtime from you.
Ensure that all pet bowls and litter trays are way out of reach of children. Don't let animals play with baby's toys and vice versa. Both are sure to put the toys into their mouths! Pets that are wormed and vaccinated are unlikely to pass diseases on to your child, however make it a habit to always wash hands after touching the pet and before eating meals.
Lastly, make sure that your pet has somewhere to call their own where they can get away from toddlers little hands and sleep uninterrupted.
If things do start to get out of hand at home, call a Behavioural Animal Specialist to see if they can help you sort things out.
About the author: As well as being a fulltime Mother, Monique is a partner in Bella Creations, an online gift shop specialising in unique gift arrangements & individual gift products for Men, Women & Babies. To view her gift range, log on at Baby Gifts Australia.