Vying
for Parents' Time:
Pets Remain a Top Priority
as the Family Grows (continued)
Maintain the routine
If morning walks with the dog were a way of life before and after the first child came along, it's important to maintain that routine, even if it means getting up and out earlier when someone else is still at home to watch the kids. When it's time for another walk, Eldredge suggests involving the kids by using a backpack for the littlest one, and a stroller if older kids aren't yet steady on their feet or ready to navigate on their own for the duration of the walk. Allowing a child to hold the leash also helps to teach responsibility and respect for furry family members.
Involving children in other age-appropriate activities, such as at age two, filling food bowls, tossing a ball or playing with a toy, also ensures that pets continue to receive the attention and affection they want and deserve when parents' time is at a premium, Eldredge said.
While it may appear easier to interest kids in a dog's more active lifestyle, Eldredge points out there's plenty of quality time to be spent with kitty as well. Quieter activities such as laying on the floor and gently petting the cat or reading aloud while he's sunbathing in his favorite spot can be just as worthwhile for everyone involved.
However, it's important for adults and children alike to respect when a pet tells you, in its own way, that it's time for some downtime, she said.
"Once the pet wants to be alone, it will go off by itself," Eldredge said. "It's important to respect when the pet is telling you it needs a break from the action."
Feline Behavior Specialist Paul Dewey, who makes his home in Honeoye, NY, just outside Rochester, shared that communication and planning are key to a smooth transition and the success of any relationship, and is vitally important when the family structure is growing and changing.
Dewey said couples need to talk to avoid confusion and eliminate misunderstandings, even about something as basic as who's responsible for feeding the family pet. Mom and Dad have several months to prepare for the arrival of another child and should try and use this time to plan ahead so that the pet's routine stays the same.
