Toddlers and Pets - Keeping Everyone Happy

For many of us, the two legged variety are not the only kids in the household. 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 time 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/toddler 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 escape 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 special 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 him or her.

Should you be interested in additional info on keeping your toddler/pet relationship a happy one, check out these great sites:
http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href= Children Learn From Pets
http://blog.snhparents.com/new-hampshire/23/infants-toddlers-and-dogs/