Health Tip: Preparing Your Pet for Baby

Rex and Tabby need to know the new rules

Related Encyclopedia • AIDS and HIV Infection • Amenorrhea • Amniocentesis • Amniocentesis and CVS More... Related Healthscout Videos Controlling Incontinence Preventing Heart Disease the Easy Way Lifestyle Changes for Heart Disease Prevention and Treatment How Heart Disease Affects Men and Women More... Related Animations • Breast Reduction • Breast Self-Exam Video • Erectile Dysfunction • Facelift More... Related Drug Information • Actonel • Cialis • Detrol LA • Diflucan More... Related News Articles • A Healthy Mind Can Help Fight HIV • Womans Diet Linked to Childs Puberty • Gene Variation May Block Cholesterol Drugs • Health Tip: Stretch Marks More...

(HealthDay News) -- Bringing a new baby into your home where your family pet is already settled can be an adjustment for your furry family members.

Text Continues Below

---

The American Pregnancy Association lists these suggestions to help prepare your pet for the smooth arrival of your new baby:

• Address issues now that you think may cause problems when the baby arrives.
• Try establishing new routines before the baby arrives so that the pet is already adjusted to your change in activities.
• If you have a dog, teach him which toys are for him, and which are off-limits.
• Understand that your pet may be jealous of the attention you give to the baby, so make sure that you give him plenty of love and affection, too.
• Never leave your baby alone in the room with a dog -- make sure someone always supervises them together.
• Talk to your veterinarian about ways to make these changes easier for your pet.

-- Diana Kohnle