PET BABYPROOFING... 

For years your pet has been your child and you’ve loved and spoiled them appropriately. But what happens when most of your love, attention and valuable time are directed to the new creature in the house – your newborn baby? Use AMC’s guide to preparing your bundle of fur to meet your little bundle of joy. 

Plan Ahead 

Make an appointment to update yearly examinations and vaccinations prior to the baby’s arrival. Use the opportunity to talk to your vet about any concerns you have with the baby and your pet. At this visit, refill your pet’s medications including heartworm and flea/tick prevention so you don’t run out in those first few busy months. 

Start adapting your pet to the post-baby routine. If they sleep on the bed every night but won’t once the baby is born, begin to train them to sleep on the floor. If they won’t be allowed in the nursery, make sure they learn that ahead of time. Install baby gates in advance so your pet gets used to a certain level of separation. 

Make plans for your pet’s care while you’re in the hospital. Make sure the person responsible for walking and feeding them can be available on short notice and has a key to your home! 

Start shifting responsibilities away from Mom-to-be. Most of her time will be spent caring for a newborn so feeding and walks may take a back seat. Now is time for Dad to step up and take over the majority of pet duties so that a routine is established for when the baby comes. If you have cats, Dad should be doing all the litter scooping already so Mom and baby aren’t exposed to Toxoplasmosis from your cat’s stool! 

If your pet is not used to being around babies and small children there are things you can do to get them used to these mini people. Invite friends with children over to the house to get acquainted with your pet. Let them sniff diapers, wipes, clothing, and other babies ahead of time so they can get used to the smells. You can even play a recording of a baby crying to acclimate them to the new sounds. 

Baby, Meet Pet 

The introduction of your baby to your fur-baby can be stressful. Before you bring the baby home, take an item that smells like baby, such as a hat or blanket, home for the pets to sniff.  

When you get home, have Dad control the dog while Mom holds the baby. Make sure that they only approach Mom and baby when they are calm. Having treats at hand to make them sit patiently is always helpful. Also use treats to reward your pet for calm, gentle and appropriate behavior. 

If your pet is shy or anxious, don’t force them to interact too quickly. Some need a little extra time to process this major change in their lives. Make sure they associate the baby with good things like treats and positive attention and they’ll be best friends in no time! 

The unfamiliar sound of a crying baby in their home can be very upsetting to pets. Make sure your dog or cat is getting enough activity and stimulation as this will help decrease pent up stress. AMC Cascades also has several supplements available to help naturally relieve stress. 

Don’t Stress 

If you are the parent of a newborn, you already have enough stress in your life. The majority of the time, with patience and a few tricks, babies and pets coexist peacefully and without major issues. It is normal to feel overwhelmed but, as you and your pet get used to your new addition, life will slowly slip into a harmonious routine. If you’re ever concerned that your pet is not adjusting well, becoming too anxious, or you’re worried about aggression, don’t hesitate to contact us at AMC Cascades so we can help keep your entire family happy and healthy.