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Kids, Cats And Dogs etc!
Existing in the same house harmoniously

 

There are some common sense steps to take when it comes to either choosing a pet for the family, or trying to adjust a family pet to having a new baby in the house

If you already have a cat in the house, please be aware that cats love to settle down next to a nice warm baby to sleep.  Very often if you ban a cat from baby's room or punish it for going near the new arrival, the cat will resent the discipline and try even harder to gain access to this new bundle smelling of baby powder, who takes all pussycats' lap space, previously reserved for him alone!

There is no reason why pets and babies cannot exist in the same house harmoniously, provided precautions are taken not to allow animals to go too near a newborn in view of infection (dogs should not be allowed to lick the baby) and the dangers of suffocation should the animal settle close to the baby's face etc.  Try to remember to make a fuss of your cat or dog when baby is around, so they are less likely to suffer feelings of rejection, especially if you have spoiled the animal prior to baby's arrival

If you have a young family and have decided a pet would be welcome, choose sensibly.  Fully matured animals of a breed known to have a possessive nature, such as German Shepherds, Pit bull Terriers, Welsh Collies etc, are not a brilliant idea, especially if you have no idea of their history.  If you are choosing from the Pound there are so many smaller breeds with gentle dispositions, such as Labradors, Retrievers and Spaniels.  A dog that dives on your children immediately and starts trying to chew their sleeves might be comical to watch but you are likely to have trouble with such a boisterous nature.

It is far better to try out a gentle dog, perhaps one that is already house-trained and obedient, especially if you have a limited amount of time to spend training.

As for cats, beware of the growling species! Those who are gentle by nature will always rub against your hand and purr loud enough to hear, so listen to what you are being told!

Warnings;

Rottweilers, pit bulls, and German Shepherds account for over fifty percent of fatal dog bites and closely supervise children when in the presence of animals.

Pet reptiles, including turtles, snakes and lizards, are a common source of infection from Salmonella in children. You should keep pet reptiles away from children under five years old, and teach older children to wash their hands after handling them.


 

 
 
 

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