It is something all pregnant pet owners think about, what will my first babies think of this new addition to the family? How will they react? Will they feel left out and unloved? Before we are ready to have children we often start a little family with pets. They are like our children. We love them, take care of them, and appreciate their unconditional companionship. Adding a new little baby to the mix can be upsetting for your pet so it is important to approach it the right way, and give your first baby time to get used to your new baby.

So what can you do to help make the introduction and the transition a little easier for everyone, especially your pets? Here are a few helpful hints to consider.

  • Consider any current behavioral issues you may have with your pet, particular those that could be harmful to the baby. The time to deal with behavioral issues is before the baby arrives.
  • If you don’t want your pet to enter the baby’s nursery or jump on the couch once the baby arrives start early with the training (long before the baby arrives). Your pet will get confused if they were allowed to do what they wanted up until the baby arrived and then all of a sudden all the rules changed. It may cause your pet to resent the baby.
  • Take some time to introduce your pet to the sights and sounds of a baby. Have a few things like the bouncy seat, car seat, and swing laying around for a few weeks (or longer) before the baby arrives so your pet can get used to the items before there is a baby in them. Also, you can find CDs of baby sounds that you can play for your pet to help them get used to what they will hear once the baby arrives. Getting them used to the crying is probably most important.
  • After the baby has arrived but before you bring the little one home be sure to have your partner (or someone else your pet is very comfortable with) take home a blanket that smells like the baby. Let you pet smell it and get used to the scent of the baby before you bring the little one home.
  • When you do bring the baby home consider your pet’s personality and temperament when deciding how best to introduce them, and when to do it. If there will be lots of people around and lots of excitement when you first get home with the baby it is probably not the best time to make the introductions. Wait until things have quieted down. Don’t force anything, if your pet isn’t ready to approach the baby, give them some space and time.

The key to the successful introduction of baby and pets is to prepare yourself and your pet for the changes that are coming. Taking the time the ease your pet into the new sights, sounds, and smells. And, most importantly, making sure your pet knows at all times that they are still loved and still very much an important part of the family. It might take some time but your pets and your children will become the best of friends.

If you have questions or concerns about making the introductions talk with your doctor, your pet’s veterinarian or trainer.  Also, talk with friends who have been through it to get some helpful pointers.

What did you find helpful when introducing your baby to your pets? Do you have any helpful hints to share?