Pets can be wonderful with kids but may need some guidance to understand what’s happening when their family expands. Help prepare your furry friends for their new family member with these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Introduce sensory experiences. 

Babies will bring new sounds and smells into the home that can quickly overwhelm your pet. Play recordings of babies cooing and crying while feeding your animal treats to help them form a positive association with the noises. 

Let them explore the child’s room and smell the blankets and clothes to get them used to these new additions. Have friends bring children to your home, so the animal can learn about babies before meeting yours.

Practice ignoring them.

While caring for a new child, you will have to ignore your pet on occasion. Help them get used to this behavior before the child’s arrival by occasionally ignoring them. Pay attention when they need food or have to go outside, but spread the attention between you and a partner or other family members, so they won’t feel especially left out when the baby comes home.

Don’t:

Skip the vet.

You may get caught up in the whirlwind of crib building and name selecting and forget to take your animal to the vet. However, they should be up to date with their vaccinations and in good health before they meet the baby. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you don’t have to add going to the vet to your long list of to-dos once the child is born.

Immediately come home to your pet.

Many families have loved ones care for their pets for the first few days after they get home from the hospital. Those who have just given birth need to rest, and having a pet jump all over them can be painful and slow the healing process. Have your animal stay off-site for a little while, so you can adjust to caring for the baby first.

Families looking for a knowledgable, compassionate veterinarians should contact Ohana Veterinary Hospital in Honolulu, HI. The clinic has been open for over 20 years, providing personalized care for companion animals. Call the family-owned and -operated veterinary clinic at (808) 845-1762 to make an appointment. Visit the website for more information on their services like vaccinations, neutering, spaying, and nutritional counseling.