Worcester and Droitwich Branch
As babies get older, both cats and dogs generally learn to keep out
of their way after a few grabs at fur and tails but you still need to be
vigilant for scratching or nipping. Never leave your pet with your
child unsupervised.
Kelly-Ann Boakes, mother to Frances (12 months) is a vet and a
cat owner. She recommends using a pheromone plug-in, such as
Feliway, at home before the baby arrives and during your introductions to help keep your cat calm. There is also a dog version called
―Dog Appeasing Pheromone‖ or DAP. Kelly-Ann was firmly against
shutting any of her cats away but discovered it was her only option
for one of them in the beginning so that Frances would be safe.
Do the right thing
There are many people out there who can be quick to say that you
should get rid of your pets as they are not safe for babies. You
know your pets are part of your family—and nothing is ever that simple when it comes to family! It‘s true that for some, the pressures of
a new baby and a misbehaving pet are too much to cope with and
they will choose to rehome their pet, temporarily or permanently.
This is a very hard decision to make but, as with all aspects of raising a family, you need to go with your instincts and what is right for
your family. Do not let anyone pressure you in either direction.
As with everything to do with a new baby, you just need to trust your
instincts: find the best way for you to feel happy and confident that
your family is safe and balanced. Making a dog stay behind the
pram when you go out for walks makes your baby more important
than the dog, who then has no choice but to be a follower rather
than a leader.
Keeping treats at hand for your pets when you have all those visitors
coming to meet the new arrival is a good idea, showing your pet
they are still important too (I think my dogs put on a few pounds
those first few weeks!)
Good luck!
Ruth Dawson-Jones, mother to Martha (13 months) and dogs Yogi
and Venus.
Worcester and Droitwich Branch Spring 2015
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