Once Upon A Child

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Recent Family News

Preparing your pet for a new baby

Getting ready for the arrival of a baby involves much more than buying new or used baby gear, furniture, clothing and toys. Individuals who have pets must also get their animals ready for the sights, sounds and smells of having an infant will bring into the home.

Some experts suggest getting your space ready for the baby's arrival way in advance, so animals have an opportunity to get used to the new items and layout.

Playing recordings of a baby crying can also get a pet ready for the increased noise that is bound to come with a new baby in the house.

Lynn Sullivan, community health program manager for The BirthPlace at Santa Monica-UCLA Medical Center and Orthopaedic Hospital, recently told the Associated Press (AP) that using baby shampoo, soap and lotion before your little one gets home may also help the pet adapt to new smells.

"While the baby is still at the hospital, take a shirt or blanket the baby has used and let your pet get familiar with the scent," she told the news source.

Families with dogs should ensure that their pets know (and obey) commands such as sit, come and stay. Those that don't may want to consider enrolling their animal in obedience training.

Cat owners should know that since cats can climb and jump, they need to take precautions to keep the pet out of the baby's crib. Because they don't like sticky surfaces, putting double-sided tape on the outside of the crib can help, according to the AP.

Remember that your pet was your first "baby," so don't be surprised if the transition takes a while.

No matter what, experts say to never leave a pet alone with a child.
 

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