If your four-legged first child has a wet nose and gives sloppy kisses, he may need some help adjusting to baby number two.

It may surprise you to know that your pet may have been the first to notice that there was a change in you at the beginning of your pregnancy. Pets are very in tune with their owners and can sense when things have changed. They will notice the change in hormone levels with an owner that they are really attached to. They may not understand what is actually happening and it is our role to make the adjustment a positive experience.

It’s common for pets to become more affectionate during your pregnancy. This positive attitude should carry on into baby’s arrival. In most cases it is estimated that about 98% of dogs will get along with a baby. There are a few dogs that will not get along and if you are in any doubt, you should seek the expertise of a dog trainer.

Still, there is plenty you can do on your own to get your pet adjusted to the baby yourself. The key is the introduction.

* Give your pet a chance to be well behaved when your baby comes home.
* Set up the nursery and put baby items around your home before your delivery so that they are familiar things to your pets.
* If anything in your pet’s routine is going to be different after baby’s birth, such as where they are to fed or where they will sleep, make the changes before the birth.
* Send your partner home with a cap or blanket that smells like your baby if time permits, and have him hold it while your pet sniffs the item.
* If your pet has annoying habits like excessive barking, resolve the issues before the baby arrives.
* A dog that is trained to obey basic voice commands is an easier dog to control when you’re busy with your baby.
* Dogs who get nervous around new people should be conditioned to ease their anxiety toward strangers. Try rewarding your dog when he meets new people and it goes well, even having the strangers hand him the treats. There is a lot of excitement when you first walk in the door with your new baby and this is not the ideal time to introduce your pet to the new arrival. Your pet may be worked up about your return so give him a chance to settle down and reconnect with you first.

Like people, pets need to feel loved and secure. Giving attention to both baby and pets simultaneously is very effective in showing pets that they are not being neglected or outranked. Having your partner or other sibling give attention to your dog while sitting beside you and the baby, then trading is a good way to use this technique.

The key is remembering your pets. Continue to snuggle with your dog and pet your cat. Don’t put them on the back burner because the family has changed. They serve a great purpose, so don’t forget them during this exciting time in your life.

Kat Hafen is a veteran mom of 5. Kat is an avid baby carrier supporter because of the positive impact it can have on babies. HugaMonkey has $25 baby carriers and offers free shipping. Get your baby carrier at http://www.hugamonkey.com.

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