All too often at the BCSPCA shelter staff find folks surrendering pets because they are expecting a new human baby. Pets are not disposable. With a bit of work, pets and babies can live harmoniously. That is if you take the time to prepare your pet for the blessed event.
Let's talk health risk. Dogs do not pose any health risks for you while you are pregnant. I would only be concerned that if you have a large dog it is properly trained so it does not jump on you. With cats the main concern is an infection called toxoplasmosis. Most human toxoplasmosis comes from eating raw or undercooked meat. Cats pass it on through feces. Toxoplasmosis is more common in outdoor cats because outdoor cats eat birds. Now would be the time for you to get another family member to change the litter box. If
you must do it, wear gloves and a mask. If you are outside gardening wear
gloves at all times.
Reptiles and amphibians are interesting pets for some folks. The health risk is salmonella bacteria. This too comes from feces. The transmission of the salmonella can affect your pregnancy. If you have a bird, keep clean air filters running as they will remove dust and dander.
Finally, wash your hands with soap and hot water after contact with any animal or human, for that matter.
With a new baby you will get a wonderful opportunity to introduce your child to human/animal bond. It is very important that when preparing a space for the new baby that the animal knows sleeping in the crib is a no-no. A temporary baby gate is a good idea to keep a dog at bay. With a cat you need a bit more creativity to keep the cat out of the nursery. This way the pet can smell and hear the infant with a bit of protection between them.
Once the baby is born, but before you bring it home, bring home a blanket or something with the baby's scent on it. Let the pet get used to the smell of new lotions and powders. This familiarizes the pet with the new addition. It is also a good idea to play tapes of babies crying so that also isn't a total shocker. Stroke the pet at this time to reassure him that the sounds are OK.
It is crucial to have a trained dog that reacts to the basic commands of sit, down, and stay since jumping on you, while you are holding the infant, could do some damage. If you have a dog that growls or shows any aggression, get a professional trainer at once. A spayed or neutered pet makes a much calmer family member and is less likely to show any signs of assertiveness.
When you first arrive home with the baby, spend a few moments alone with your pet. Let him know how glad you are to see him. Then, after he is calm with you, slowly introduce the baby. The pet should be allowed to visit the baby in a quiet fashion. It is important to constantly praise the pet for good behavior. The pet will want to do a lot of investigating. This is perfectly natural. Remember he was there first. At no time is it wise to leave any pet alone with the infant no matter how well trained your pet is.
Babies are a lot of work but it is so very important to try to keep your pet on the same schedule as before. Please don't forget play time and most of all lots of hugs and kisses and praises. Pets have feelings too. They will also still need a space to get away from it all where they too can find some peace and quiet.
Often, concerned new moms will associate a baby's allergy with a pet when it actually is from the detergent or a new food. Please consult an allergist before you give your pet up.
As your child grows older, teach him/her how to be around animals and that it's not OK to bother Fluffy when she is sleeping and it's a no-no to pull ears or tails. The most important lesson is that when Rover is eating you never bother him. Children have to be taught that antagonizing a pet will get them scratched or bitten. Teaching respect must be done from the beginning.
E-mail me at [email protected] and let's talk animals.
