Woodrock’s top tips to get your baby and pet to be besties in no time
Do you have a new addition to the family but don’t know how to introduce them to fury friend? Woodrock Animal Rescue shares expert tips on how to get them get along like a house on fire.
There’s nothing more exciting than welcoming a new baby to the family as a parent.
But if you’re a pet owner, you may be wondering how to introduce your furry friend to the new addition. When is the right time, and how can you ensure a smooth transition for both your pet and your baby?
At around six to eight months, babies start to crawl and become more mobile, making it essential to introduce them to your pet safely.
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Jayme Abbot from Woodrock Animal Rescue in Bryanston said this introduction could be an easy transition through the following steps:
Spotting stress or anxiety in your furry friends
When a new baby crashes the pet party, your furball might start acting like they’ve seen a ghost. Look out for panting, pacing, whining, or hiding. Cats might pull a disappearing act, while dogs could turn into Velcro pups or start redecorating your furniture. Keep an eye out for the telltale signs like pinned ears, tucked tails, or that frantic licking – those are big, furry red flags.
Prepping pets for the baby takeover
Sneak in some baby prep before the little one arrives. Start playing baby sounds at a whisper, let them sniff baby stuff, and set some ground rules such as no pawing at the crib. If your pet’s used to being the star of the show, start giving them some solo playtime and showering them with treats to avoid any jealous meltdowns.
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The grand introduction to baby
When it’s time for the big meet and greet, keep it cool and relaxed. Let the pet take a whiff of a baby blanket first, then introduce the baby from a comfy distance while your pet’s in chill mode. There’s no magic age for this, just ensure early, positive vibes with a watchful eye to ease them into their new reality.
Supervised snuggles only
Keep an eye on all interactions between your pet and baby. Reward any calm behaviour and redirect the wild antics – no forcing the pet to play if they’re not feeling like it. Let them observe from a safe zone to build trust, and create cozy corners for both baby and pet to hang out without feeling overwhelmed.
Handling fearful or feisty furry friends
Do you have a pet with a flair for aggression or fear? Better call in the pros. A trainer can help before the baby arrives with desensitisation and positive training. Make sure your pet has a cosy retreat to escape to, and if things get hairy, a muzzle might be a must just use it wisely and under expert eyes.
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Sharing the love between pet and baby
Consistency is key folks. Include your pet in daily rituals such as walks or nap-time cuddles, to stop jealousy from creeping in. Puzzle toys and interactive feeders can keep them busy while you juggle baby duties. Having your pet sit nearby during feedings can build those warm and fuzzy associations.
Teaching kids pet etiquette
As your little one grows, it’s crucial to teach them gentle pet handling and respect for their furry pals’ space. Use kid-friendly explanations and lead by example for safe interactions. And remember, never leave small children unsupervised with pets, no matter how sweet they seem.
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