One of the saddest things to me is when a once-beloved family pet turns into a nuisance as soon as a human baby arrives. It just hurts my heart. I am not going to venture my guesses as to why or how this happens, but rather provide a few tips that have worked for us on promoting an inclusive and happy family with a dog and a baby. (Because I only have a dog, this is mostly applicable to dogs rather than cats or any other creatures you may have. Sorry!)

• Before your baby is even born (or preferably before you’re pregnant…most preferably when your animal is a baby), start introducing it to things like strollers, crying baby sounds, and young children. I happened to work as a nanny when Charlie was a puppy therefore he had lots of encounters with babies and children.
• When the baby arrives, bring something home from the hospital before the baby comes home. Nate brought Waverley’s first beanie for Charlie to smell before her and I were discharged.
• This seems overly simplistic but: include your animal in day-to-day things. Breastfeeding on the couch? Let him snuggle up with you. Running to the store? Let him ride in the car, even if he’s not going to get out. (My head is out the window! This is awesome! This is the best day of my life! I love car rides! –Charlie)
• Avoid only giving your pet attention when the baby is sleeping. They will learn to associate increased attention with the baby not being around.
• Do not unnecessarily yell at your pet viciously. Yes, sometimes Charlie barks during inopportune times (e.g., when I am trying to put Waverley down for a nap), but I believe how I talk to him will impact how she thinks of him and eventually talks to him. And eventually treats animals. And all people. Is that going too far? Regardless, this has really worked. I calmly ask Charlie to stop barking and neither myself nor Waverley grow stressed. Now when he barks she hardly notices or is affected.
• Keep up the dog’s exercise routine or pre-baby walk schedule. It creates a vicious cycle of annoyance when a dog has too much energy, no exercise, minimal attention, and new family members. Nip it in the bud with a good run, dog park session, or walk around the block! The baby can come too!
• Once your baby develops past a ball of sleepy mush, starting teaching her how to act with pets. Right now we are working on how to pat Charlie rather than rake up a fistful of ears or fur for her culinary pleasure. Start them young!
• When you play with the baby on the floor, play with your pet too. That’s a perfect opportunity to throw a ball down the hall for the dog or give him a good belly rub. Plus it teaches both the baby and pet how to appropriately treat each other by your stellar example.

And then, before you even know it, they’ll have their own sweet relationship filled with kisses, shared snacks, and backseat conversations. My heart!

 I hope everyone has a fun, celebratory and firework-filled Fourth of July weekend! Don’t forget to enter the 4moms mamaRoo giveaway and get 15% off at VONBON. If you’re looking for food ideas, I’ll be making this curry potato salad, these mini berry galettes, and homemade baked beans. Happy Independence Day everyone!