Being pregnant for the first time is exciting, but many parents-to-be worry their furry friend won’t be as welcoming of the new addition. Fortunately, there are a few fantastic ways to prepare your dog for what’s coming. Below, the team at Parkview Animal Hospital, a veterinary clinic in Lincoln, NE, lists three tips to ease the transition.

A Veterinary Clinic’s Guide to Preparing Your Pup to Meet Your Baby

1. Get Them Acquainted With Small Children

Much of the uncertainty around pets and babies comes from simply not knowing how your pup will act around kids. If your animal is already inclined to be gentle and friendly, it might be a good idea to see for yourself. Ask a friend who has small children to bring them over to meet your dog. If all goes well, try to have your pooch spend a bit more time with kids so they get used to them.

2. Act Like a Baby Is Around

Even before you bring the new arrival home, start acting like a baby is around. Play some sounds of an infant crying and making other noises, and have your pet listen to them so they acclimate to the new sounds. Set up all the items you’ll need for your little one and let your dog investigate them by smelling them. You can even carry a blanket around like you would a baby and have your pup get used to sitting next to you while you have something else in your arms.  Before the baby comes home for the first time bring home a blanket with their sent so they can sniff it and get acquainted with the new baby smells.

3. Supervise

Even if your pooch is perfectly gentle, it’s still best to supervise all interactions between your child and your dog for a while. That way, you can monitor how they interact with each other and make sure it’s positive and friendly.  This supervision should last through the toddler years, a lot of things can change once the baby is mobile. 

Need more help preparing for a new addition? Lincoln’s top veterinary clinic will be happy to assist you. Parkview Animal Hospital is dedicated to ensuring area pets are healthy and offers a wide array of services, including boarding and grooming. This locally owned facility has been in business for more than 30 years and will treat your best friend like a family member. To learn more, call (402) 423-6939 or visit this veterinary clinic online.