Introducing Your Pet to the New Baby

• Take your pet to the veterinarian for a routine health exam and necessary vaccination.
  
  
• Spay or neuter your pet.  Sterilized animals are traditionally calmer and less likely to bite.  Also, they have fewer health problems associated with their reproductive system.
  
  
• Consult with your veterinarian and pediatrician.  By working with these experts before your baby is born, you can resolve problems early and ease your mind.
  
  
• Get help from an animal behavior specialist if your pet exhibits fear and anxiety.
  
  
• Trim your pet’s nails regularly.
  
  
• Consider enrolling in an obedience training class with your dog.
  
  
• Ask friends with infants to visit your home to accustom your pet to babies. Remember to supervise all pet and infant interactions.
  
  
• Familiarize your pet with baby-related noises. For instance, play recordings of a baby crying or turn on the mechanical infant swing. Make these positive experiences for your pet by offering a treat or playtime.
  
  
• Apply double-stick tape to the furniture to discourage your pet from jumping on the baby’s crib and changing table.
  
  
• Block the entrance to the baby’s room with a sturdy removable gate high enough to keep your pet from jumping over it. By doing this, you will teach your pet that the baby’s room is off limits.
  
  
• Talk to your pet about the baby, using the baby’s name regularly if you’ve selected one.
  
  
• Sprinkle baby powder or baby oil on your skin so your pet becomes familiar with these new smells.
  
  
• Plan ahead and make sure your pet is cared for properly while you’re at the birthing center.  Call a friend, neighbor or relative months in advance to set up arrangements.  Don’t wait until the last minute!
  
  
• Carry around a swaddled baby doll to help your pet get used to the real thing.