Newborns and pets: how to create a safe interaction

Every parent strives to provide their baby with safety and comfort, avoiding unnecessary contact. However, if there is a pet in the family, the question of how close the child's contact with the animal should be becomes relevant. Psychologists emphasize the beneficial effects of communication between an infant and animals, noting that already the very youngest can feel closeness and warmth in relationships with pets. How to ensure friendship between a newborn and a pet?

Preparing a pet for the arrival of a child begins long before this event. It is important not only to morally prepare family members for the arrival of the baby, but also to adjust to the changes and your pet. It is recommended to conduct experimental walks with the dog, visiting families with children. By observing the reaction of the animal, you can determine its attitude to children.

There are several approaches to preparing a pet for the arrival of a child. Before the mother and child return from the maternity hospital, it is recommended to bring home an object belonging to the baby and let the pet sniff it. A veterinary examination of the pet is also necessary before bringing the infant into the home. Tasty treats or interesting toys, such as those from a pet supply store, can be offered to reinforce the pet's positive attitude toward the baby.

Sometimes face the difficulty of accustoming the pet to the baby. Therefore, during pregnancy, you should reduce attention to the pet to avoid jealousy. This will help prevent the pet from reacting negatively to changes in attention.

As the child grows older, starting from six months, it is necessary to teach him some rules of communication with the pet. It is important to explain to the baby what is pleasant to the animal and what can scare it. For example, the child should avoid stroking the belly of the pet, preferring scratching behind the ear.

Children should also understand that they should not torture the animal or disturb it while it sleeps or eats. In addition, if the family is going to visit friends with pets, it is important to closely monitor the child's behavior to avoid unpleasant situations.

Dogs usually do not immediately recognize a new family member as a host, so it is important to teach them to accept the infant. The best option is to acquire a dog after the baby is born and raise them together. However, it is important to evaluate the feasibility of providing full-time care for the pet in conjunction with caring for the infant.

By following guidelines and taking precautions, it is possible to ensure safe and joyful interactions between children and pets. Regular visits to the veterinarian, hygiene measures, and a reasonable scattering of attention will help create a positive home environment for all family members, including pets.