New Babies and Pets DO Mix
By Barb Galler-Smith

Every year hundreds of animal 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 and protector of the new child.  Before considering a new home for your pet, check out the options.

The wonderful benefits of having an animal friend for the children to play with and grow up with are well known.  But some parents are still nervous.  Don't worry!  You can do some of the things which will 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.

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

  1. 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 he should not sleep in the crib.

  2. 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 as normal.  You can also use this time to familiarize your pets to the smells of any powders or lotions you intend to use.

  3. 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 a part of your life and that the baby is now a part of his life.

  4. Play a 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 can diminish their anxiety.

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

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

  7. 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.

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

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

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.

(Reproduced with permission from the
Toronto Humane Society's Animal Talk Newsletter.)

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