Pets and new babies can coexist harmoniously if the parents prepare ahead of time.
Pets and babies can coexist harmoniously with the right preparation and planning.
One of the most common reasons why pets are donated to shelters is because their owners are expecting a child. However, it is a common fallacy that having a child implies you no longer have time or space for a pet. Pets are a lifetime commitment that should not be abandoned once a child is born.
Pets were often the first "babies" for many first-time parents. Now that a genuine baby is on the way, parents must assist their pets in adjusting to the newcomer and creating a safe environment for both the animals and the newborn.
Allow the dog to sniff around the nursery before the baby arrives to get used to the odors of baby soap, powders, creams, and diapers, as well as the general ambience. Play on the phone, relax in the rocker, and spend some time in the room together.
When a family pet is accustomed to receiving all of his human's time and attention, jealousy is understandable when a baby arrives. Setting aside even a few minutes a day to spend quality time with the pets can help a lot during the transition.
Dogs and cats, like newborns, are creatures of habit; keeping their routine as normal as possible may prevent them from acting out once the baby arrives. The new noises of wailing and the middle-of-the-night activities with feedings and diaper changes may make pets nervous at first. However, dogs are intelligent creatures with nurturing instincts, so don't be shocked if the dog prefers to sleep under the cot rather than at the foot of your bed.
It is critical to supervise all interactions between the child and the pets once the child is mobile. This is an excellent time to teach children about limits and the value of treating animals with kindness.
For example, whether the child was alone or the parents had not given the child sufficient instructions, a child can agitate an otherwise calm, peaceful dog.
When I had three tiny dogs and a kid, I soon learned how to protect the dogs from the child, especially during the baby and toddler years.
Pets can aid a child's growth in a variety of ways, including offering physical, social, and emotional benefits. As a youngster grows older, he will appreciate the opportunity to assist in the care of the pets.
Pets serve as a natural icebreaker for meeting new people and appear to aid in the development of social ties in shy children.
Having a pet in the house is not only a fun experience for kids, but it's also a terrific method to teach them responsibility. Just bear in mind that pet-related tasks should be age-appropriate for the safety of both the youngster and the pet. My child is entering adolescence and, as I write this, is out walking the dogs.
Children and pets can coexist harmoniously with proper introduction, boundaries, and monitoring. When you say hello to a new baby, you don't have to say goodbye to your dog or cat.
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