Pet's and planning a baby?

We currently have 3 pets, a 3 year old chihuahua that get's alittle defensive with new people but is a cuddle monster with everyone he knows, a 2 year old cat, and a 1 year old high energy beagle.


We are considering trying to conceive and are having major concerns about our current little ones. The cat I don't see an issue with, he is realtively calm unless one of the dogs is attacking him.


The chihuahua isn't too bad but I'm worried about the first meetings and wether or not he'll get defensive with the baby.


The beagle on the other hand is another issue, she continually demolishes my wives' shoes and books, she is completly energetic bouncing around and chasing the cat everywhere, she never has gotten physical except when we are in bed and try to move her she starts to growl alittle then she finnally jumps off the bed.


Just to clear up something, I WON'T GET RID OF ANY OF THEM!! I love them way too much. So if anyone can give some tips or experiences it would help greatly!!

Pet's and planning a baby?
You need to make sure that when you bring your little one home from the hospital you've prepared the animals first. While your wife is in the hospital, bring home a used diaper and a blanket that the baby has slept on and let the dogs sniff at it. They need to get the babies scent. Then when you bring him/her home...don't scold the dogs, talk to them softly and quietly, lay the baby on the floor, between your legs (Especially if you are the alpha male in your "pack"...if it is your wife, she must do this).. and let them sniff at the baby and smell her and get used to her wiggles, squeeks, cries, etc.... they must know that she is the new member of the "pack" and that she is "over" them....


Everything will work out well...even with the hyperactive beagle!! Good luck with everything!
Reply:As the person above suggested, take them for walks. This will help them release energy and let off steam, so they'll hopefully be more calm.





You should keep the pets away from the baby. Over time, they should get used to his/her presence without having to get close enough to do any harm. Put baby gates up to keep them from having access to where (s)he sleeps, and maybe even where your wife's shoes are kept.
Reply:Socialise them with babies and children.Bring the beagle for lots of long walks to get rid of some of his energy.when my daughter was born I had one dog,before we brought the baby home,we gave the dog a blanket that the baby had slept in,so he could get used to her smell.I think it worked very well.



flower