Simple tips to get your fur baby ready for the new addition to the family.
Bringing home a new baby is a thrilling and exciting experience. However, if you have a pet, it can be hard to determine how they will react to it. The best thing you can do is prepare them beforehand so the transition will go smoothly. Here are some tips that could help your pet get ready for the arrival of a new baby in the home.
Start the prep work early
It is best to seek expert advice on how to handle this particular situation. Enrol your pet in an obedience class. This can help control and address bad behaviours so they can adopt basic manners. Things like jumping on people or even playful biting might seem harmless, but they have to be managed around a baby. When your dog is better behaved, it will make it easier to include her in family activities, which will create a healthier space for your pet as well. You probably are already getting ready for the baby and setting up the nursery. Allow your dog to come into this area of the home and sniff around. Take the stroller along for your walks with your pet so they get used to it. Pretend the baby is already here so your dog can practice cues to know where it should be when the baby is around. It is also important to take your dog for regular health checkups before the baby arrives.
Set up a well-thought-out meet and greet
When it is time for your fur baby to meet the new baby, plan it out well and consult with an expert. Greet your dog without the baby first. Once your pet has settled in, have her sit beside you while you hold the baby. Do not let them sniff the baby's face. If you don't mind your pet hanging around in the nursery, cue your pet to lay on their mat and give a reward for listening. Even though a new baby will alter your routine and whole lifestyle, try to be consistent with your pet's routine. Make sure she is fed on time and gets regular exercise. More importantly, don't forget to give them attention during the day. No matter how well behaved your dog maybe, do not leave your child alone with them. They need to be supervised at all times.
