{"id":1247,"date":"2023-01-18T22:31:46","date_gmt":"2023-01-18T22:31:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chministries.org\/?p=1247"},"modified":"2025-02-19T09:53:20","modified_gmt":"2025-02-19T14:53:20","slug":"introducing-dogs-and-cats-to-baby","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chministries.org\/blog\/introducing-dogs-and-cats-to-baby\/","title":{"rendered":"Introducing dogs and cats to baby"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Dogs and cats can have a special place in the hearts and lives of families. Some are protective and territorial. Others love just about everyone but mail carriers. Pets can be aloof and independent or prone to stealing unattended food and ruining perfectly good shoes and furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whatever their disposition, most pets are eager to please. They can learn to \u201cSit! Stay!” and “Be a good dog or kitty!\u201d when there\u2019s a new baby around. However, preparing pets for a newborn requires careful consideration. Before introducing pets to your baby, you\u2019ll need new barriers, boundaries, and ground rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stewardship of all creatures, great and small<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\u201cThe righteous care for the needs of their animals.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Proverbs 12:10, NIV<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The kindness we\u2019re called to as Christians extend to the animals in our lives. As some of God\u2019s most sociable creatures, pets are worthy companions. Beyond species and breed names, pets humbly accept their given names, whether it\u2019s Boots, Bowser, or something more biblical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pets can model unconditional love. They\u2019re quick to forgive, whether you step on a paw, scold them or leave them home alone. They coax smiles, entertain with antics and nudge you to get out of bed or go for a walk. The health benefits of pets range from protecting hearts and comforting special-needs children to heroic rescues. It\u2019s not easy, but merging pets and babies is usually worth the effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Caring for cats and dogs, while protecting babies\u2019 safety<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you starting a family or expecting? Prepare pets and toddlers for the baby, too, so everyone\u2019s ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most pets resist change. They may feel sad, stressed, or confused and act out by shredding pillows or leaving smelly surprises on the rug. Ask your vet about preparing your dog or cat for the new baby. Follow these tips, for starters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n