Pets and Baby

Planning for the day when your baby arrives, when pets will have to play a different role in the family than they have been accustomed to, is simpler to deal with than most have imagined. As your pet makes a part of your family, mother Ina Salimbangon shares that there is no reason to get rid of your pet when you are expecting a new member of the family.

Being a pet owner for the past six years (when baby was born) to a Beagle breed dog named Amber, Ina shares that between her son John Martin (nicknamed Mato) and the family pet, they both have a wonderful relationship together. "Mato always gives Amber a hug, hands out treats and greets/plays with her everyday," Ina said.

The necessary changes, which can be easily dealt with to avoid any jealousy is to introduce your pet to the new baby. "Your treatment towards your pet should never change. It is important to involve your pet with any activities (by going for a walk and even watching TV) you do with your child, but by treating your pet as the 'first baby'. I've also learned to show more love and attention to Amber most especially when Mato is around. This is for your child to follow your actions, and will do the same towards the pet," she added.

It is highly important for your pet to be taught its new sleeping arrangements by not letting it feel that the new baby is responsible for the changes. "Before Mato was born, Amber used to sleep in the bedroom but now, she has to sleep in the living room," said Ina. "This practice of sleeping in the living room started shortly before the baby was born". (Note: It is highly important to be aware of the danger of allowing your pet to sleep in the same room as your baby.)

Handling the new situation very well, Ina admitted that no jealousy was involved. "My pets attitude has remained the same - calm, relaxed and didn't have a protective nature towards the child. In the beginning, all I had to do was to let Amber smell my new baby. I never treated my pet any different since the birth of my son."

As most pets love children and most children love pets, Ina also adds that it creates a healthy atmosphere to have a pet at home most especially with children around. "It's true that letting your child and pet learn to be the best of friends certainly adds a positive energy to your home."

Healthy Note: Have the necessary vaccinations done before the baby arrives to avoid any diseases being passed on to your toddler.