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You have mastered juggling a baby, car seat, and the diaper bag all at once. Now it's time to Introduce a new pet into your home. Transitioning a new pet and baby does not have to be difficult. Follow these easy tips and the introduction will go smoothly.

~ Pets rely heavily on their sense of smell. Allow your pet time to become familiar with baby's smell before they meet for the first time. Let your pet smell baby's blankie or an outfit baby wore. Since you gave your pet time to become familiar with baby's scent, your pet will feel like they already "know" baby when they actually meet.

~ Your pet will try to claim your baby's items as their own, baby may try to do the same, discourage this behavior right away. Redirect to their own toys and keep pet and baby toys separate from each other. You do not want them fighting over toys down the road. Baby toys should be for baby and pet toys should be for your pet.

~ Baby has a new space to call their own. Setup a space for your pet too. Designing a place for your pet will help them adjust easier once they are in your home. Your pet will have a familiar place to go if it needs quiet time away from the family.

~ Make time for your pet. Your family friend needs attention too. Schedule one-on-one pet times as well as "family/pet" times.

~ Any aggressive behaviors towards baby by your pet needs to be address right away. Try addressing the bad behaviors in the same way you would normally address inappropriate pet behavior. If your behavior modification techniques do not work, seek help from a pet behaviorist. Catch your family friend being good too! Giving lots of praise will encourage your pet to behave good all the time.

~ When baby begins becoming more active it's time to teach appropriate ways to treat your lovable family friend. Pets do not like to be hurt. Children learn through modeling. Show your baby how you want your pet treated. You will be building a foundation of mutual respect that will last both of their lifetimes.

Encourage a happy and safe relationship between your pet and baby right from the start. Following these easy steps will ensure that they are the best of friends and respectful to each other right from the start. A sense of humor and patience will go a long way when a new pet joins your family. Remember, it is OK to ask for and seek help. The Web, your Veterinarian, and your local pet store are great places to seek information and support.

Learn more about this author, Elizabeth Blankenship.
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