Welcoming a New Family Member
Bringing a new baby home is an exciting time, but it can also change your daily routines and household dynamics. Pets may not understand why things are different, but creating new routines and starting some training can help them adjust more easily. With some planning, you can make this transition smoother for everyone.
Preparing for Baby’s Arrival
Congratulations, a new baby is joining your family! While this is a happy time, it can also change how your family interacts and behaves. Prepare for the new family dynamics.
Think about how much time you spend with your pet and what that time looks like. For example, if you have a regular routine, such as twice-daily walks, mix things up in advance by introducing some independent activities for your pet.
Consider the behaviors your pet already has and any desirable behaviors that would be helpful. For instance, does your dog bark and jump on you or guests? Does your cat weave between your legs when you walk? Addressing these behaviors now can help prevent future accidents, especially when you are carrying your newborn. Working with a certified trainer or behavior professional can be helpful during this transition. They can identify the key skills your pet needs to learn and guide you through the training process. Resources, such as DogGone Safe and Family Paws Parent Education, are available to assist families during this time.
Set up baby equipment such as swings, bassinets, and sound machines in advance to help your pet adjust to the new sights and sounds. These can be unfamiliar to pets and may cause fear or distress.
Limit access to the nursery with a baby gate or a closed door, and introduce these barriers early so they do not cause anxiety later. Consider adding gates around baby equipment, especially floor-based items, to create a safe environment.
Creating a Safe Haven for Your Pet
If your pet does not already have a quiet retreat or safe haven, create one in advance. This area can be a peaceful spot for your pet to retreat.
Final Preparations Before Baby Arrives
Babies bring many new sounds, smells, and sights into the home. Carry a doll, play crying noises, and pretend to talk to the “baby”, to help your pet get used to changes in your body language and movement. Many people tend to talk to their pets as they would a baby, which can confuse pets. This is another opportunity to help them adjust.
Schedule a veterinary appointment to update vaccinations and ensure your pet is healthy. Stock up on medications and preventives for the first few months. If you are concerned about your pet’s stress during the homecoming, talk to your veterinarian about short-term medications or supplements that might help.
Make arrangements for your pet’s care while you are in the hospital or bringing the baby home. Have a backup plan in case you need to stay longer. Prepare food and care instructions for the pet sitter or boarding staff, and use a pill box for medications to reduce the risk of incorrect dosing.
Stock up on toys, chews, food toys, and puzzles for your pet. Freeze several food toys in advance to be ready to use when needed. These can help keep your pet entertained when you are caring for your baby or when you have visitors.
Coming Home with Baby
If you choose to bring home a blanket with your baby’s scent in advance, do not let your pet play with the blanket. Your pet will naturally notice the baby’s scent on you and hear the baby in their carrier. Create a calm environment before you enter the house with your baby. Consider how your pet might react if multiple visitors are present for the baby’s homecoming. If your pet is stressed, it may be best to greet them separately.
It is okay to delay introducing your pet to your baby. If you are uncomfortable having your pet home when you arrive, consider sending your pet or pets to a family member’s house or boarding them for a few days. Excitable pets, especially those that jump, should not greet you at the door while you are holding the baby. Keep your dog in another room or behind a baby gate when you come in, or have someone else hold the baby while you greet your pet.
Supervising Interactions
Interactions between your baby and pets should always be supervised. Keep your pet’s face and paws away from your baby. Take your pet with you if your baby is resting and you leave the room. Use kennels, gates, or doors to separate pets when you cannot supervise.
The First Few Months
Use training cues for familiar behaviors and food toys. When your baby cries, direct your dog to their safe space with a food toy or ask them to go to a designated spot while you change the baby.
The first few months may feel overwhelming, and you may feel you are neglecting your pet. When possible, lean on your support network or consider daycare or boarding to give yourself a break. Patience and planning will help with this transition.
