Posted on: Sunday, October 17, 2004
Help your pet adjust when a new baby arrives
Hawaiian Humane Society
In the last year, the state Department of Health reported, more babies were born during October than in any other month.
Tag No. 44341. This attractive 2-year-old male cat wears a fluffy coat of orange tiger stripes with white underneath. He gets along with people as well as other cats. Known as a cuddle-bug, Lucky is waiting for you in Room 1 at the Cat House.
Tag No. 711. Maile is a 4-year-old sweetie with a heritage of shar-pei and pit mixed into one adorable gal. She enjoys the company of most other dogs and is a real fan of people. Use positive reinforcement to teach her good manners.
These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open noon to 8 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The incoming-animals area always is open. If you've lost or found an animal, call the society immediately at 946-2187, ext. 285. See www.hawaiianhumane.org. Just like siblings of a newborn, pets are family, too. And some pets may become confused when the family dynamics change. Dr. Scott Harada of the Pet Clinic says every situation is unique.
"Understanding your pet and preparing ahead of time are the keys to keeping the whole family happy," he said. "If the mother-to-be is the pet's main caregiver, get other family members involved to ensure that pets won't experience a sudden change when the baby comes. Address any territorial or aggressive behavior with positive training.
"Preparation will help your pet be compatible with family life."
Before baby arrives
• Treat your pet to a check-up with your veterinarian and discuss any concerns. • If your pet typically nibbles, pounces on, or swats at people, redirect that behavior to toys. Teach your pet to jump into your lap only when invited. • So that your pet does not feel displaced by the baby, set up the nursery in a spot where your pet is comfortable, but not where the animal sleeps. • Allow your pet to become accustomed to baby-related noises, smells and activities ahead of time. Play a tape of baby sounds, use baby powder on your skin, and carry around a doll or teddy bear, cradling it in your arms like a baby. Talk to your pet and say the baby's name. Offer your pet a treat to make these new experiences positive. • While the baby is still at the hospital, bring home a baby blanket and introduce your pet to the baby's scent using a soothing voice. Bringing baby home
• When the new mother and baby first arrive at home, have someone else carry the baby. The mother can greet the family pet, then invite the animal to sit quietly and introduce the baby, rewarding with treats for appropriate behavior. • Relax! Your pet will sense anxiety, so relax and speak softly. • Never leave your new baby and your pet alone together. • Discourage your pet from jumping on the baby's crib; install a baby gate that will still allow your pet to see into the baby's room. • Keep your pet's nails trimmed. • Try to maintain a regular routine for your animal companion. "If the thought of your newborn interacting with the family pet makes you uncomfortable, consult with your veterinarian or a professional trainer so you can resolve problems early," says Harada. "Don't shut your pets out. ... With careful planning and positive reinforcement, your baby and the family pet will bond."
There are many steps parents can take to ensure a smooth transition of their newborn into a home where there are pets.
ADOPTABLES
Lucky
Maile
