Table of Contents
- 1. Understanding the Shift in Routine
- 2. Establishing New Household Boundaries
- 3. Introducing New Sounds and Smells
- 4. Preparing for the Practicalities
- 5. Supervision Is Key: Safety First
- 6. Helping Pets and Babies Thrive Together
- 7. Join a Class: Prepare Your Whole Family
1. Understanding the Shift in Routine
Bringing a new baby home is an exciting time, filled with dreams of a loving family. For many of us, that family already includes beloved pets. The bond between children and animals can indeed be a truly wonderful and enduring relationship, but like any significant life change, the arrival of a tiny human requires thoughtful preparation for your furry (or feathered, or scaled) family members.
It’s very important to prepare your pets well before the arrival of your gorgeous bub to ensure a smooth, safe, and happy transition for everyone.
Pets thrive on routine and often see themselves as central to your household. A new baby will inevitably shift this dynamic, so proactive steps can prevent stress for both your animal and yourself.
One of the most effective strategies is for your partner to gradually take over all the pet care duties. This includes feeding, walking, playing, and vet visits. This helps your pet adjust to a change in primary caregiver before the baby arrives, preventing them from associating negative changes solely with the baby.
Simultaneously, begin getting your pet used to being alone for periods if they aren’t already. This prepares them for times when your attention will be fully on the baby, reducing separation anxiety.
2. Establishing New Household Boundaries
Consider your home environment. Any areas of the house that will be off limits when the baby arrives, organise those boundaries now. This might include the nursery, the baby’s play area, or certain rooms where the baby will sleep.
Use baby gates, closed doors, or other barriers to establish these new boundaries before the baby is introduced. This gives your pet time to adjust to these new restrictions without associating them directly with the baby’s presence.
3. Introducing New Sounds and Smells
Pets rely heavily on their senses, and a new baby brings a whole new world of sounds and smells. To help your pet adapt, start exposing them to these new stimuli gradually.
You can download baby crying sounds from YouTube and play them quietly while reassuring your pet with praise and treats. This helps them create positive associations with these new noises.
Similarly, introduce new baby smells. Once the baby has arrived home, but before direct introductions, put some baby clothes next to your clothes and let the pet get used to the new smell. This allows them to process the baby’s unique scent in a calm, non-threatening way.
4. Preparing for the Practicalities
Practice makes perfect, even for pets. If you have a dog, begin practicing walking them next to the pram. This familiarizes them with the new equipment and ensures they can walk calmly alongside it, making future outings much easier.
It’s also wise to arrange for whoever will mind the pet while you are in hospital to have some practice runs. This might mean a few overnight stays at their place, or them coming to your home to care for the pet.
This prevents additional stress for your pet during a time of significant change and ensures they are well-cared for while you’re focused on childbirth and recovery.
5. Supervision Is Key: Safety First
The absolute bottom line with pets and babies is to supervise or separate! Never leave a baby or young child unsupervised with a pet, no matter how trustworthy or gentle your animal usually is.
Even the most docile pet can react unpredictably if startled or inadvertently hurt. When you cannot actively supervise, ensure your pet is safely separated from the baby in another room, a crate, or behind a secure gate.
This simple rule is the most crucial step in ensuring the safety and well-being of both your baby and your beloved pet.
6. Helping Pets and Babies Thrive Together
Preparing pets for the birth of a baby is an investment in a harmonious household and a beautiful future where pets and children can share a wonderful, enduring relationship. With thoughtful planning and gradual adjustments, you can help your pets welcome your new baby with calm and curiosity.
7. Join a Class: Prepare Your Whole Family
Ready to learn more about creating a safe and nurturing environment for your growing family, including tips for introducing new siblings, furry or otherwise?
Having A Baby Classes provides comprehensive guidance on all aspects of preparing for your baby’s arrival and navigating early parenthood.
🍼 Explore our range of classes today and gain the knowledge and confidence to welcome your bub into a happy and well-prepared home.