Pet Meets Baby

Presented by Jane Greco Deming Animal Rescue Rhode Island Humane Education Consultant and Program Manager

Whether you are pregnant, adopting, fostering, or preparing to welcome a new child into your family, this workshop will help you learn important steps to prepare your dog, cat, and other pets for the changes ahead. You’ll hear practical tips, helpful strategies, and trusted resources that can be implemented right away. Preparing your pets early can greatly increase the chances of a smooth and successful transition for everyone in your household.

For many families, pets are truly the “first baby” and are accustomed to receiving plenty of attention and affection. But even the sweetest, most loving and well-behaved pet isn’t automatically prepared for the arrival of a new family member. A baby brings unfamiliar sounds, smells, movements, equipment, visitors, and significant changes in routines and attention, all of which can be confusing or stressful for a pet.
The good news is that there are many things you can do before a baby arrives to help your pet adjust. This workshop will teach you how to prepare your pet for these changes, safely manage interactions, establish healthy boundaries, and create positive experiences that can help lay the foundation for a safe, happy, long-term relationship between your child and a much-loved family pet.

You’ll learn techniques for safely desensitizing your pet, preparing for changes in routines and attention, and managing situations when access to the baby or certain areas of the home needs to be limited. You’ll also receive guidance on helping your child grow up pet-friendly, along with many other practical tips and take-home materials for future reference.
According to the CDC, young children are particularly vulnerable to dog-related injuries. Thoughtful preparation and appropriate supervision can help create a safer, more harmonious home as your family grows. Don’t wait until the baby arrives to begin preparing your pet; the earlier you start, the better.

This program isn’t just for expectant parents. It is also valuable for partners, grandparents, caregivers, babysitters, family members, adoptive parents, and those who are considering foster care or currently fostering a child. Anyone who will play a role in caring for the baby, or who will be helping the family and pets adjust, can benefit from learning how to encourage safe, positive interactions from the very beginning.