By: Jason Benitez, Staff Writer

Preparing for the arrival of a newborn can be both an exciting and daunting task. Baby-proofing a home includes a plethora of safety practices that may seem like common sense at first, but are essential to maintaining a secure, happy home for the jubilantly expected new comer.

Procedures such as installing electrical socket covers; purchasing shorter drapes; and even simply moving around easily knocked-over items, are all part of the parental list, which will keep your new numero uno out of harm’s way. That list doubles if you already have or are considering purchasing a dog soon after the arrival of a newborn.

Pets have been and will continue to be labeled as “part of the family”. They grow with us both physically, and at times we feel they understand us emotionally. Making room for new arrivals is never an easy to-do, but the rearrangement stemming from building a new family can provide the gratification of sharing a noble family pet with a growing child. If done sensibly, of course.

“The thing is, the temperament of the dog was a big thing for us,” said Patricia Santayana, mother of two boys with another on the way, about sharing her household with 11 year old Oliver, a rescued Schnauzer.

“Being an older dog, he was already trained, so we didn’t go through the whole puppy stage, but I honestly believe it has everything to do with the temperament of the family.”

Many professional dog and animal trainers recommend formal, disciplined training a first priority for ensuring the safety of both the new born and the family pet.

“A lot of families get pets to provide companionship. Dogs have boundaries, they have limits and they have feelings, just like we do. They think, and reason, and rationalize, and the main thing to make them understand is where their boundaries are,” said Johnnye Fountain, head trainer and proprietor of Master’s Professional Dog Training Academy.

“I think where a lot of families make their mistake is treating the dog as a family member instead of as a pet. Without training, a dog doesn’t know where its boundaries are. They may not ever come to like the child, but they must tolerate the child.”

Regardless of training, interaction between the family dog and a newborn must always be monitored at first. Some dogs can be extremely territorial and may see a curious newborn as a threat.

“I don’t mind pets around the house, but not around newborns,” said Dr. Rafael Llanso, M.D., a pediatrician in Coral Gables, Florida.

Dr. Rafael Llanso has 20 years of pediatric experience, and can attest to the need for diligence in childproofing a home for pets.

“I’ve had a few instances where dogs have bitten some of my patients, both family dogs and dogs that were not from the family.”

According to Dr. Llanso, a useful training tip is to allow your dog to smell your baby’s garments or blankets. This will familiarize them with the scent of the child.

Also, it is crucial that pets never be around the baby without adequate supervision.

“A typical bite occurs when the toddler crawls to the pet’s food,”

According to experts on child bearing, being vigilant over the interaction between the honored baby and a beloved animal companion is necessary to maintain a stable and friendly relationship.

“ You still have to make sure your dog is patient with children. You have to watch them in the beginning to make sure they don’t hurt the dog, and see how well your dog reacts to them. You have to know what you have,” Santayana said.

Santayana was able to protect her babies from any possible harm, but other families have not been as lucky. For the safety of your new household and that of your dog, it is important to follow the appropriate procedures. We suggest contacting your local dog trainer for more tips.