Dear Critter Corner: We are expecting a baby in a few months and want to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible for all of us. What are some tips you can give us?
Congratulations on your upcoming addition to the family! I am glad you are planning ahead so the transition goes smoothly for everyone. Many times, we overlook our resident animals and what their needs may be to adjust to the upcoming changes and assume that they will be okay.
One of the first items I suggest you look at is whether there will be any changes to existing rules, such as furniture privileges or access to various areas of the house. After you have your list, work on each item individually, so you are not overwhelmed. If your pup is currently allowed on the couch, but you want to limit that when the baby comes, there are a few approaches. You can no longer allow couch privileges at all, you could allow only if you have invited them, or you could allow them, but only on a certain spot, like a blanket. The first two can be harder to manage when you are not there. Having a specific spot they are allowed on can be an easier transition. If your pup knows “place” or “go to bed,” this is similar, which makes it easy for your pup to learn.
I would also introduce your pet to new items that will be entering the home, such as a stroller and new toys that may be off limits. If you will have guests visiting the baby once they arrive, will your resident animal be okay with them, or does work need to be done? If your pet is afraid or uncertain about visitors to the home, you will want to have a safe space for them to go in addition to working on getting them used to the new activity. If they are overly excited, you will want to work on their manners so it’s less stressful for everyone. Come up with your game plan and start to work on it now.
Once the baby comes, remember to set aside special time for your resident animals. They most likely are used to being your #1, and having to share can be stressful for them. Making sure to retain some of your current routine can go a long way.
While most pets adjust to the new family member rather easily, it is a good idea to take some extra steps now to ensure the transition is smooth.
Tasha Suda is the Lead Dog Trainer for the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA Behavior Department. For more information, please visit phs-spca.org, call 650-340-7022 x314 or email tsuda@phs-spca.org.