The more I think about it that is a pretty cynical title. I’m joking of course, it is a very special and exciting time! This post is a special request, how to best prepare your dog (or cat) for an incoming family member. A new baby brings with it the joy of parenthood but also many many changes in smells, sounds, attention, and time. These are not lost on our pets who have played a big part in our lives. Some pets do quite well around the new babies, others can become stressed, anxious and jealous. This can be expressed through displaced aggression, house soiling and other behavioral abnormalities (such as increased grooming in cats).

For both dogs and cats it is important to plan well in advance, ideally months in advance!

• relocating common eating places or sleeping areas gradually if needed.
• If your pet is very structured in their daily schedule, it may benefit them to be used to changes. If they have been fed at 7 am every morning, try a 6 am feeding or a 10 am feeding.
• Get them used to the smells as well, unpack some of the baby toys and clothes (if your dog goes to pick one up make sure to redirect them to THEIR toys). Use some baby shampoo and creams on yourself so they may associate the smells with someone they are familiar with.
• If your dog is sensitive to noises it may help to use a recording of baby noises and pair it with giving them attention. This way when they hear a baby crying or screaming, instead of being afraid they will associate it with attention and treats.
• Training and obedience are crucial around this time, your dog should be well trained in sit and stay commands as well as a “go away” type of command. Greeting at the door calmly and politely will also be invaluable.
• Don’t smother your dog in the weeks before the baby arrives, because once it is there, and you are elbows deep in dirty diaper your dog is still expecting that attention!
• When it comes time to bring the baby home, it is advisable to have everyone enter, a helper should place a leash on the pup and distract with treats. While you (the new parents) enter quietly and calmly with the baby.
• Body language is key, if you act nervous or jumpy your pet will likely pick up on this!!
• consider hiring a dog walker to make sure they are getting the activity they need.
• consider finding quiet places for your cats bed and don’t forget to keep the litterbox clean!
• Above all, while it is easy to react when your pet does something undesirable around the new baby it is important to avoid punishment and use positive reinforcement. This results in more lasting effects and less undesirable and unpredictable behavior

If you still find there are issues it is a good idea to seek help in a veterinary behaviorist.

Here are some good links for cats and dogs.