Preparing Your Pets for Baby!

Almost all my clients have a first-born furry baby or two before they get pregnant. Most expecting parents wonder how their dog (or cat!) will handle the transition during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

Here are my top tips for a smooth transition as a mom of 5, birth doula, cat and dog owner…

1) Enjoy lots outdoor walks!!

Pregnancy is not a time to stop the exercise. Use your pregnancy as a time to multi-task quality time with your furry pal and get some fresh air and daily movement. Regular walks don’t have to be long or intense, but enough to get your blood flowing. It’s healthy for you, baby and your dog!

Pro-tip… at the end of pregnancy, start incorporating your stroller to help set the pace for future family walks with baby!

2) Let them acclimate to the new baby furniture.

Whether you create a full-blown nursery for your new baby or just design a cozy nook in your bedroom, it’s still a lot of change for your dog. Some dogs may not even notice the new furniture and decor. But others, may need time to adjust to the changes. Be patient and give them time!

4) Be warned…animals can often sense labor!

Dogs (and cats!) can often sense when labor is beginning. They may start acting more excited or anxious 24-48 hours before you go into labor. Their heightened sense of smell enables them to detect both the hormone and pheromone changes at the end of pregnancy, leading up to birth.

**If you’re planning a home birth (or a longer hospital induction), you will need to have a solid plan in place for someone to care for your pets so your medical team can focus on supporting you and baby!

5) Save baby’s blanket & bring it home first.

Your precious new bundle of joy will take up your time, make lots of new noises and they will come with A LOT of new smells!

One way you can ease that transition, is to bring one of baby’s first swaddle blankets home ahead of time to help your animals get accustomed to their scent. Most of my doula clients do this and they say it really seems to make a difference!

Having a baby and introducing them to your furry first-borns IS a big deal. But rest assured, you are giving your pet the gift of a NEW best friend and someone who will grow up showering them with love (and treats galore!!).

Wishing you a smooth and joyful transition for your ENTIRE family!!