How to Introduce Your Pet to Your Kids

Meet Joe. Joe is in his mid-thirties and has a lovable, cuddly golden retriever named Sandy. Joe’s had Sandy since right after he graduated from college. Sandy was there for him through everything, including his wedding, honeymoon and even his bachelor party. So when Sandy and his wife found out they were pregnant with their first child, his excitement also gave way to fear. He was afraid that Sandy would feel neglected or replaced once the baby arrived. He worried he wouldn’t have enough energy to spend with both Sandy and a newborn. And he had no idea how to introduce his beloved companion of over ten years with the tiny baby he had just met.

Does this sound familiar?

For many people, their pets are their first babies. People joyfully spend money, time and love on their pets, and deeply cherish their relationships with them. And rightly so! But what happens when, like Joe, a new baby enters the picture? How can you make sure that the transition is as seamless as possible, including for your dog? We’ll share a few tips for you to try if you want to introduce your dog or cat to the newest member of your family.

BRING AN INTRODUCTORY ‘TOY’ FROM THE BABY TO YOUR PET

When possible, introduce the baby’s burp cloth, swaddle or even outfit to your pet. Give your pet time to get accustomed to the new scent. Since it’s the first introduction of your baby’s scent to your pet, try to have it happen at your home or a place where your pet is comfortable, and without the baby present at first. Like humans, pets can get stressed by sudden changes. Change can be a lot easier to take when it’s a little at a time and we’re in a familiar environment!

CONTROL THE FIRST MEETING

The first meeting between your pet and your new baby is exciting, but try to remain as calm as possible. If you have a dog, make sure they first approach the baby on a leash if possible. Once you and your dog are more comfortable, you can remove the leash as long as you monitor the situation closely. They might not be best friends right away, but slow and steady wins the race.

PLAY WITH YOUR PET WITH THE BABY AROUND

Much like introducing siblings, adding a baby to your new family means that your pet is aware that there’s less of you to go around. You most likely won’t have as much time to spend with your pet as you did before, but you can still find ways to incorporate your furbaby with your new one. Play with your dog or cat when the baby is around. Take your dogs on your afternoon stroller walk. Get creative with it – and definitely don’t try to force any kind of bond. There will be plenty of time for that as your baby grows up. Each stage is an opportunity to teach your baby how to treat your pet gently and lovingly as well.

EASE TRANSITIONS AWAY FROM HOME

At The Good Dog Spot, we know that transitions can be difficult for our four-legged friends. Whether it’s with a new baby or a night away from home, pets need to feel loved and cared for.

Got an overnight trip planned away from your pet? Got an overnight trip planned away from your pet?  We offer a nightly rate that includes a full day of play as well as discounts for multiple pets, 7+ night stays and even deeper discounts with our prepaid boarding packages. We make sure that your pet gets the love, attention, and affection they deserve to ease the transition until you pick them up. Click here to find out more!