Dogs Trust a dvice
Dear Editor, With the recent wonderful addition of Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor to our royal family, I’m writing to encourage readers who are parents-to-be to make sure they prepare their dog for a new arrival, as I am sure the Duchess of Sussex has done with Guy, her pet beagle.
Having a baby is a big event for the whole family, including the dog. The more time spent training the dog and helping adjust to the changes that are coming, the easier it will be for all, as the dog will experience changes in routine as well as new sights, smells and sounds that may upset them.
There are lots of simple steps readers can take to help their dog adjust:
* Get them used to the reduced attention before your baby arrives by separating them from you, for short periods of time every day, in the leadup to the birth.
* If they are going to be kept out of certain rooms, ie the baby’s room, start doing this as soon as possible by setting up baby gates ahead of time. This way they will feel comfortable well in advance of when you need them to.
* Try not to overexcite or stress your dog by staying calm and relaxed when you bring your baby home.
* Teach them how to approach the baby properly and gently. Allow them to make safe initial investigations and approaches under your supervision. Give them treats and lots of praise when they behave well around the baby.
* Make sure your dog has enough to do and is kept well exercised, even if it means considering a dog walker.
* Your dog must have a place to feel safe and relaxed; somewhere that they can go if things are getting too much.
Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and cares for around 15,000 dogs across its network of 20 rehoming centres. It has a nondestruction policy, and will never put a healthy dog to sleep.
The charity also focuses its efforts on understanding dogs and sharing that knowledge with the public to prevent problem behaviours that can result in relinquishment or abandonment.
We are working towards the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.
The charity also has free online resources such as a downloadable sounds of a baby crying to help dogs get used to the noise, and a comprehensive leaflet offering tips and advice on preparing your dog for your new arrival.
Visit www.learnwithdogstrust.org. uk/be-dog-smart to find out more, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for helpful information. Hollie Sevenoaks, Dog trust