Family safety - Getting your pet ready for the arrival of a baby

The arrival of a new child into a family is a very exciting. It means a lot of changes for you and your pet as well. However with a little planning it is possible to ensure that stress and change is kept to a minimum for your pet.

Before your baby arrives

Implement a regular routine now

Make any changes to your pet's routine NOW rather than waiting till the baby arrives. Does your pet sleep in your bedroom or jump on the furniture? Will you be happy for them to continue this?

Make sure the new routine includes one on one time with your pet that you will be able to manage once the baby arrives. Begin a leash walking schedule now that you will be able to continue and practice walking your dog beside the pram.

Playing pretend

A baby crying can startle even the most placid pet. Prepare your pet by pretending you have a baby (doll) and create scents and sounds of a baby in your home. Playing a tape recording of a baby crying can reduce the chance of your pet becoming upset when she/he hears the real thing.

Obedience training

Reviewing or upgrading your dog's obedience is essential. This is ensures you can control your dog in all situations.

Sleeping and change areas

Before your child arrives home allow you pet to explore the baby's sleeping and change areas. This is especially important with cats. The first few introductions to the new furniture should be well supervised to reduce the chances of your cat spraying.

After the initial supervised explorations, nurseries and cots should be kept pet free. Teach your pet that these areas are off limits before the baby arrives. For cats this may require booby trapping the area. Another option is to install a screen door on the baby's room. This provides air circulation and allows you to hear the baby, while keeping your cat outside the room. The screen door also enables your cat to see and smell the baby and not feel left out.

Getting the scent

When the baby arrives, bring home blankets and clothes from the hospital. These will carry the baby's scent and allows your pet to familiarise themselves.

After the arrival

First introductions

If you have your baby in hospital it is likely that mum will have been away from home for a few days. On return home have someone wait outside with the baby while you greet your pet.

After your pet has settled down then bring in the baby. Let your pet notice and investigate the new baby. Encourage gently interaction and praise good behaviour. Make sure your dog is controlled on a leash.

Praise, praise, praise

It's important to reward your pet for obedient relaxed behaviour in the presence of the child. Pick up your baby in your pets presence and reward him/her when they sit quietly.

Positive experience

Many pets learn to relate the presence of a baby as a time for inattention, confinement, or even punishment. There maybe time for playing still, but often is when the baby is asleep. To avoid this situation every effort should be made to allow the pet in the room for food, play or affection when the baby is present. The goal is to teach your pet that ‘good things' happen in the presence of your child.

Scaredy cats

Don't be surprised if your cat goes into hiding after the baby arrives. Allow your cat time to realize that everything is alright. Do not try to pull your cat out of hiding. Make sure you have a quiet room to which your cat can escape.

Quality time

As much as possible try to maintain your pet's routine. Your pet still needs quality time with you even if it's only five minutes of sitting alone together, talking quietly or grooming. Continuing quality time will ensure your pet remains a valued family member.

Never leave your children alone with your pet.