Expecting a baby is a wonderful and exciting experience; however, your dog might think differently. Here are few things to consider to make the transition as seamless as possible for your dog.

Over the course of the pregnancy, it is a good idea to:

• Familiarize your pet to new baby furniture, blankets, toys and other baby related items.
• Start desensitizing your dog to a crying baby by playing recorded sounds over time. An infant’s crying can stress your dog. Gradually desensitizing him before the baby arrives is important.
• Avoid having the dog sleep in the future baby’s room so that he is not protective of the area.

Once the baby has arrived:

• It is crucial that your pet still receives one on one time with you for playing, grooming and walking.  Dogs have a pack mentality. When a new family member arrives, they are lower in the hierarchy. It is important that your dog still feel like part of the pack to avoid resentment towards the new baby as well as develop a bond with the new baby and understand that he/she is not a threat.
• The baby should never be left unattended around animals, regardless of their demeanor.  Children and pets are unable to communicate and can be unpredictable.  A child may unintentionally aggravate a pet, even simply by crying. As a last resort coping mechanism, a pet can lash out at the child as a way of telling him he’s had enough.
• Although pets sleeping alongside children can appear adorable, it should always be avoided.  Young infants are at a high risk of accidental smothering or suffocation by a pet sleeping with them.
• A dog should always be given a personal area where the child is not allowed in order to escape and be alone when needed.  This can be achieved with the use of baby gates, play pens and doggie doors.
• Some dogs play rough and jump or knock children over.  This should be discouraged and closely monitored as this could be a sign of disrespect towards the child.
• Ensure your pet is on a monthly deworming protocol to keep everyone in your family protected. Parasites such as roundworm, hookworm, ringworm, ticks and fleas, to name a few, can be passed on to people, children being most susceptible.
• The dog should be up to date on its vaccines as some of these viruses and diseases can be passed onto us and can even be fatal to young children.
• If the dog has a hard time adjusting, it is important to be patient and continue to work with him.  There are veterinary exclusive aids available to help ease the stress.  In severe cases behavioral intervention may be required.  We encourage you to talk to the staff at Centrepointe Animal Hospital to ensure you and your pets are properly prepared for the arrival of your new bundle of joy.