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Striking A Happy Balance Between Toddlers And Pets
By Jennifer Remeta
For many of us, the two legged variety are not the only type
of kids we have. Many of us have four legged, furry kids as well.
Striking a harmonious balance between the two involves some work, but done
right, it can result in a beautiful friendship.
First and foremost, a couple ground rules for keeping toddlers and pets
happily co-existing in the same house:
- Never leave your child and your pet together
unattended. NEVER. 90% of injuries to children resulting
from pet bites or scratches happen when the animal and the child are left
alone together. You may have the most docile dog in the world, but if
your toddler gets a firm hold on a tender ear and then decided to chomp
down with his or her own new teeth, someone is coming away bleeding.
- If you think this is a great timme to get a brand new puppy or
kitten, think again. Better yet, go have your head examined.
If you must bring a new pet into your household at this time, go
through a rescue group and let them find you an adult animal who is used to
small children. Now is just not the time to have to worry about taking
a puppy out in the middle of the night, or keeping inquisitive little
fingers out of a recently used litterbox.
- Always keep a close eye on pet/ttoddler interactions during
the day. Praise your toddler for gentle behavior with your pet
(light petting, hugging if you pet permits it, etc.). And do not
forget to PRAISE YOUR PET AS WELL! Even though it might seem like Fido is
doing nothing special as he sits and lets Junior pat his head, remember,
this little person is still relatively new to the household, and as
such, they are something to be wary of. Praising your dog or cat during
this time reinforces to them that tolerance will be rewarded and
gentleness is a must.
- Make sure your pet has a clean eescape route. If
your pet has his own crate, bed, or kitty condo, establish early that this
area is off-limits to your toddler. We all need a "safe" place to
retreat to when the screeching and hair pulling get to be too much.
- Don't forget to save some speciaal time for your furry
friend. Once your toddler is angelically asleep for the evening,
take the time to give your pet some serious affection. Give them a brush
or a rub down, or share the couch if thats allowed. It never hurts to
reinforce to your pet that they are still a loved and appreciated part
of the family.
- And perhaps the hardest thing to learn? Don't jump up
expecting a problem every time your pet and your toddler interact.
Both your "kids" will pick up on your anxiety and it only serves to
complicate the situation. When your little one approaches your alert but
relaxed dog, keep close by but don't automatically snatch up your son
or daughter. Give your toddler guidance "Nice puppy. Be gentle." "Be
soft. Sweet kitty." Give them a chance to meet on a frequent basis,
and a true affection will eventually develop. Remember, as far as your
animal is concerned, this new little human is simply a new member of the
pack, and as the head of the pack, they are going to be looking to you
to determine how they should deal with this.
When these ground rules are met and adhered to, harmonious living
should ensue. And after all, there really isn't anything quite as adorable
as a child and their pet, now is there?
Find more toddler tips at www.parentingtoddlers.net!
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