gluten-free: it's gone to the dogs

June 26, 2015 Kristen Carr

Have you gone gluten-free? These days, it seems like nearly everyone has, and I'm still not entirely sure why. Gluten seems to be the new devil, and people are eliminating it from their diets regardless of whether they are intolerant. This trend is now trickling down to our dogs, so I thought we'd take a closer look at whether or not going gluten-free is a good thing for our pups.

First of all, do we know what gluten is? The Jimmy Kimmel Show (bomb!) hit the streets and asked health enthusiasts about it in his "pedestrian question" segment.

If asked this question, would you have been able to answer correctly?

I would have flubbed it. Though I know the definition, I feel like it's sort-of morphed into this diet-craze thing that has become ultra confusing. While gluten can be a real problem for people with celiac disease, we're only just now learning about "gluten intolerance," something I would guess would be more of a "processed food issue," but perhaps it's simpler to peg it on gluten.

So what is gluten? You still don't know? Me either. I'm confused.

Let's clarify.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat and some grains, including barley and rye. It provides elasticity to dough, giving it a chewy texture.

Bam.

And then I did some research.

is gluten all that bad for us or for our dogs?

Unless one has a sensitivity to gluten, it is neither particularly good (except for the fact that it is a source of protein) or bad for you. In humans, gluten sensitivity manifests in the digestive tract, causing stomach upset or bowel irregularity. The same holds true for dogs, but the most common and outward sign in the canine variety is poor skin condition. If your dog has itchy, dry skin, or maybe even a few bald spots, it could be due to a number of things, but gluten may be the culprit.

That being said, have you considered your climate or checked for fleas? Poor food quality (whether or not the food includes gluten) is the most common reason for these issues.

how common is canine gluten sensitivity?

True gluten intolerance is actually pretty rare in both humans and dogs. PetMD states that "in a study of 278 cases of food allergy in dogs where the problem ingredient was clearly identified, beef, dairy, chicken, egg, lamb, soy, pork, and fish (none of which contain gluten) were responsible for 231 combined cases. Wheat, which contains a lot of gluten, was only involved in 42 cases."

Hmmmm.

The scoop on gluten-free dog food.

As people become more interested in a gluten-free diet, the trend has trickled down to our dogs. Gluten is commonly in dog food as a binding agent. If your dog is experiencing tummy trouble or poor skin quality, it certainly doesn't hurt to try a gluten-free dog food and see if symptoms improve. If they do–great! Gluten-free dog food is readily available and becoming even more-so, so it's fairly easy to give it a try.

Gluten-free dog food is often a higher-quality food with meat being the only source of protein. For this reason, gluten-free dog food is usually more expensive. Very inexpensive, poor-quality dog foods will typically contain a lot of grain as a filler since grain is much less expensive than meat. As with the foods we feed our human family members, it's important to read the ingredient list on your dog's food. If your dog is truly gluten-intolerant, you'll probably be saving money on veterinary bills by putting him on a gluten-free food, but, if not, you may be spending extra unnecessarily.

is "grain-free" and "gluten-free" the same thing?

Grain-free dog foods are just that–free of any grain. Gluten-free dog food may or may not contain grain. Since gluten is only present in some grains (the most common being wheat, barley, and rye), a gluten-free dog food will be free of those grains, but may contain other grains that do not contain gluten. In summary, a gluten-free dog food might be grain free, while a grain-free dog food will definitely be gluten-free.

Is your head spinning? Mine, too. Just remember:

GRAIN-FREE = GLUTEN-FREE

GLUTEN-FREE may or may not = GRAIN FREE

how to make the transition.

Any time you switch your dog's food, it's important to make the transition slowly for two reasons.

1. Your dog will likely be more accepting of the new food.

2. Your dog's digestive system will have time to ease into the new situation, which is especially important for dogs with sensitive tummies.

I suggest a 1/4 over 4 days formula, which will gradually transition your pet over the course of 12 days. You'll switch 1/4 of your dog's food to the new food for four days, then increase the amount of new food by 1/4 every four days. It looks like this:

the bottom line.

If your dog experiences tummy upset or suffers from poor skin quality, it certainly can't hurt to try a gluten-free dog food. Regardless of whether your dog is gluten-free or not, it is important to research the ingredients in your pet's food and choose a high-quality option.

Is your dog gluten-free? Please share your story!

keeping your dog safe around the pool

June 8, 2015 Kristen Carr

We think about pool safety when it comes to our human children, but pool safety for dogs is often overlooked. The water can be enticing for most breeds, and it can be just as dangerous for them as it is for our children.

It is with great sadness that I share a recent tragedy with you. One of my pet sitting clients, Renee*, lost not one, but two, dogs to drowning in the past two weeks. Neither dog had ever been near their pool, and neither dog had shown the slightest bit of interest in the water prior to their drownings. When she told me about the passing of the first dog, I was heartbroken for her family. But when she told me about the second just a few days later, it was almost too much to bear. Both dogs were short-muzzled, elderly, and the home did not have a pool fence. Since there are no children in the home, the couple didn't feel the need for one. They have other pets. Renee says that they are installing a pool fence. She said, "I will never ever assume anyone is safe around the pool again. So tell your other pet parents do not let your pets near an open pool. If it is not fenced, then you need to be with them. Watching them."

Wait. What? Don't dogs naturally know how to swim?

Yes and no. Unlike humans, all dogs are genetically programmed to paddle in water. It's a survival skill, but it's not "swimming." Some dogs are naturals in the water, but some can't swim at all. If you have a dog and you have a pool, it's critical that you protect your pooch. Here are some things to consider:

first thing's first. who can't swim?

Though all dogs will paddle in water, some really can't swim based on anatomy. Dogs who aren't water friendly are:

dogs with short muzzles: Dogs with short muzzles such as Pugs and Pekingese are unable to hold their heads in a position to take on air instead of water. They are not good candidates for swimming.

dogs with short legs in proportion to their bodies: Dachshunds and similar breeds and mixes have a really difficult time paddling and staying afloat.

dogs with heavy heads: Perhaps the most important type of dog to steer clear of the water. Bulldogs' heads, for example, will quickly sink to the bottom of a pool.

So how can these types of dogs be part of the family pool party? If they are going to be around the pool, it's important that they wear a life vest. There are vests made just for dogs in all shapes and sizes. Another great idea for cooling off is a kiddie pool. Just a couple of inches that your pooch can lie in is a great way to include him in the fun.

all dogs and dog owners need to learn about pool safety

If you have a pool and you have a dog, chances are, he'll fall in at some point. He needs to know what do do.

Make sure your dog knows where and how to safely exit the pool.

Whether you plan to swim with your dog frequently, or you're simply wanting her to be safe around the pool, it is important to teach your dog how to get out of the pool. Your dog needs to know where to get out, whether it's a graduated entry, steps, or ladder. Teach your pooch to swim there, first, and make sure she can get out on her own. If she knows where to go to get out and how to get out, odds are, even if she falls in unexpectedly, she'll be able to navigate to that spot and get herself out. If she doesn't know, she may struggle against a side of the pool she can't get out of, eventually leading to exhaustion and drowning. There are special steps and ramps designed to make pool entry and exit easier for dogs, so if your pooch struggles with getting in and out of your pool, it's wise to look into these options.

Learn pet CPR. Though the idea is the same, pet CPR is quite different than human CPR. One basic difference is that CPR for dogs is done with the dog laying on it's side. Pet CPR courses are offered, and it's a great thing for any pet parent to take. I took mine at PetTech.

Teach your dog to swim. Swimming can be great exercise for dogs in good cardiovascular health, so be sure your water-loving pooch knows how to do it properly. One reason it's important for your dog to know how to swim properly is so he is calm in the water. A panicked or fearful dog may bite if you try to assist him in the pool. If he's calm and confident, he won't panic. Some dog trainers offer swim lessons.

We've all been told to wait to swim thirty minutes after eating to prevent cramping. Though that myth has pretty much been thrown out the window for humans, it holds true for dogs. Dogs–especially large breeds–are at risk for bloat if they swim on a full stomach. Allow your pooch time to digest her meal before swimming.

Be mindful of underwater pool features. Dogs may jump onto features beneath the surface of the water such as built-in stools or platforms, which can result in serious injury, such as broken bones. It's best not to have these types of features if your dog likes to swim, but, if that can't be avoided, be sure to steer your dog away from these features. Also be sure to remove pool vacuums before allowing your dog to swim. Dogs can become tangled in the tubing and risk drowning.

Though a refreshing splash in the pool can be great for water-loving dogs, hot tubs are a big no-no. Dogs can't tolerate the heat of a hot tub.

Remember that pool decks may become hot, especially during the summer months. If the deck is to hot for your feet, it is too hot for your dog's feet. Be sure you provide an area of shade where your pooch can stand so he doesn't burn his paws.

Some dogs like to lap out of the pool, but chlorinated water isn't really healthy for your pooch, especially in large quantities. Provide a fresh bowl of water next to the pool so your dog can stay hydrated.

No matter what, never leave your pet unattended around a pool. You should treat your pet as you would a small child. Pool fencing is an excellent idea. Make sure it is tall enough to keep your pet out, as some dogs will attempt to scale fences to access a pool.

clean up after a swim session

After you're done swimming for the day, remove all toys from the pool. This includes dog toys as well as human toys. If left in the pool, they become temptations, especially for water-loving dogs. You don't want your dog to try to reach a toy in the pool when he is unattended, so it's best to remove these things to be safe.

Wash and dry your dog. If your pool is chlorinated, rinse your dog of with the hose or a shower. Not only is chlorine a chemical that shouldn't be allowed to sit on the skin, it can be very drying to your pet's skin and coat. It's also a good idea to dry your dog's ears thoroughly after a swim to remove excess moisture and keep the ears healthy.

know your dog and make swimming a fun activity

Though there is a lot to consider regarding pool safety for dogs, swimming should be an enjoyable activity you can share with your pooch, and it is an excellent low-impact exercise because it puts very little strain on your pet's joints. If your pooch loves to swim, go for it. A dog who doesn't like the water should never be forced to swim. f your dog doesn't like the water, it's still important to teach basic safety such as where to exit if she falls in.

Does your dog like to swim? Do you plan to swim with your dog this summer?

This article, written by me, originally appeared on Brie Brie Blooms and is reposted here with minor changes with permission.

* Names have been changed.

20 people foods you can share with your dog

May 2, 2015 Kristen Carr

Despite the fact that we are often told "don't give people food to your dog," there are actually quite a few people foods that are just fine–even beneficial–to our canine companions. Including these foods as supplements or treats can add variety to your dog's diet as well as provide a boost to his health. Though some foods can be toxic, or at the very least, unhealthy for your pooch (I wouldn't recommend polishing off an entire bag of potato chips together), you can rest assured that the foods listed here are healthy for dogs unless yours has an allergy or special sensitivity. These twenty foods are not meant to replace a regular canine diet. It is always safest to introduce new foods one-at-a-time and in small quantities.

20 people foods you can share with your dog

1. Apples Apples are a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. They help clean teeth and freshen breath. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core, as they can be choking hazards, and seeds, in large quantity, can be toxic.

2. Blueberries Blueberries are as good for our dogs as they are for us. They are an antioxidant and a great source of fiber. They can be frozen as a crunchy treat.

3. Brewer's Yeast Brewer's yeast is an excellent source of vitamin B, which is good for your pooch's skin and coat. Dogs love the taste, so sprinkle it on your dog's food to help with picky eating or appetite issues. Please don't confuse brewer's yeast for baking yeast, which will make your dog very sick. Do NOT give baking yeast to your dog.

4. Carrots Carrots are a great snack or treat for dogs. Baby carrots are convenient and well-liked by most canines. They are especially good for pets on a weight loss program, because they are low in calories and high in fiber. Carrots are high in beta-carotene/vitaminA and are excellent for dental health.

5. Chicken Cooked chicken is often a staple of feeding your dog a homemade diet and can also be used as a treat or added to regular food for picky eaters or for added protein.

6. Cottage Cheese If your dog digests dairy well (proceed with caution...not all dogs do), cottage cheese can be a good source of calcium. It is easy to add to your dog's food, and most dogs love it. Other types of cheese can also be given sparingly, as they are high in fat.

7. Eggs Cooked eggs can be added to your dog's food or given as a snack. It is a great way to give your pooch a protein boost, and eggs also soothe upset tummies. Eggs are a good source of riboflavin and selenium.

8. Green Beans Green beans are a healthy, low-calorie treat for your dog. They are a source of fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C. They can be given raw or cooked, but it's best to avoid the canned variety, as canned green beans often contain added salt. Frozen green beans make an excellent treat, and since green beans are filling, they can be used to replace some of your pet's food for weight management.

9. Oatmeal Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber. It can help if your pooch has irregular bowel issues, especially if she is getting on in years. Always use plain cooked oatmeal, never oatmeal with added sugars or flavors.

10. Parsley A bit of chopped parsley over your dog's food or baked into homemade treats is great for your pooch's breath and is a good source of calcium, potassium, and beta-carotene.

11. Peanut Butter Peanut butter is a great source of protein and good, heart-healthy fats. It also contains vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E. Raw, unsalted, natural peanut butter is the way to go. Your dog can lick it off a spoon, you can bake it into treats, or it can be frozen into an ice cube tray or a Kong.

12. Peas Peas can be added to your dog's food or given as a treat. They are great frozen or fresh. Peas are an excellent source of vitamin B, thiamin, phosphorous, and potassium.

13. Peppermint Peppermint is strong, so it's best used sparingly as an ingredient in homemade dog treats to help with upset tummies or bad breath.

14. Popcorn Popcorn is a fun treat you and your dog can enjoy together. For your pooch, it must be air-popped and free of butter, oil, and salt (it's probably best for you that way, too). Popcorn is low in calories and contains potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium.

15. Pumpkin Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, so it can help tremendously with digestive issues, keeping things moving through the GI tract at the right pace. It is also an excellent source of beta-carotene/vitamin A. Always use plain, cooked pumpkin (the canned variety works just fine). It can be given alone or mixed into your dog's food, and most dogs love it.

16. Rice Rice is great for an upset tummy. You can serve either brown rice or white rice. Brown rice is higher in protein and lower in fat. White rice is an easily digestible carbohydrate, which is a great source of energy.

17. Salmon Cooked salmon and salmon skin is a great source of protein and omega 3 fatty acids. It keeps your dog's coat healthy and shiny and provides immune system support. Salmon oil can be added to your pet's food as a supplement for the same effect.

18. Squash Like pumpkin, any kind of squash can be used to bulk up your dog's stool. It is a good source of beta-carotene/vitamin A. Cooked squash can be added to your pet's food, or it can be sliced and frozen for a crunchy treat.

19. Sweet Potato Sweet potatoes are another great source of fiber. They contain vitamin B6, vitamin C, beta-carotene/vitamin A, and manganese. Add a scoop of cooked sweet potato to your dog's food or slice and dehydrate for a chewy treat.

20. Yogurt Plain yogurts with active bacteria can be used as a probiotic, which is excellent for your dog's digestive system, especially if he has a sensitive tummy. Yogurt is high in calcium and protein. It can be used as a treat, frozen in a Kong, or mixed with your dog's food. Be sure to steer clear of yogurt with artificial sweeteners or added sugars, and if your dog is overweight, choose a low fat variety.

Whenever introducing a new food into your pet's diet, be sure to take things slow by introducing it in small quantities. Though these foods are very healthy for most canines, some dogs may have sensitivities, so always use caution. Once you know your pet is good to go, you can slowly increase the amount you offer. It is also important to only introduce one new food at a time so that if there is a sensitivity or reaction, you'll be sure to know which new food is causing it. Introducing the new foods one-at-a-time will also ensure your pet's system isn't shocked.

It's important to know that some foods that are healthy for us are toxic to dogs, so be sure to do your research before supplementing with something new. A list of foods that have proven toxic to dogs and should not be given in any quantity are: alcohol, avocado, chocolate, coffee, grapes, macadamia nuts, onions, raisins, and yeast dough.

What people foods do you give your dog?

This article, written by me, originally appeared as a contributor article on Hybrid Rasta Mama. It appears here, with minor changes, with permission.

child dog-walkers: guidelines and illustrated leash-holding techniques

April 26, 2015 Kristen Carr

Children typically love to help out with the family pet. Even if you can't get them to clean their rooms, they will likely be happy to walk Fido. My son, Porter, has been accompanying me on pet sitting visits since he was one week old. As soon as he could hold his head up properly, I would put him in a forward-facing carrier on my chest while I walked dogs. At about six months of age, he began to want to hold the leash he could see stretched out in front of him. I let him hold the leash a couple of feet in front of the end where I had a firm grasp, and I think he was convinced that he was doing the job, himself. He'd giggle and coo during every walk. He is now eight years old, and I'll let him walk the family dog independently and very occasionally a client's dog, depending on the dog and the situation. Regardless, I'm an arms-length away in case an emergency arises. There are lots of tasks children can help with when it comes to the family pet, but walks are a favorite. One thing to remember is that our pets are completely dependent upon us to meet their basic needs. It's vital that parents make sure the most important tasks are being done, especially if they have been assigned to a child. Making sure the family dog gets food, water, and exercise is vital to his well-being.

so when is a child ready to walk the family dog?

Whether a child is capable of walking the family dog is dependent on a number of factors, all of which must be considered for the safety of the child and the pet.

• age of the child

• maturity of the child

• physical strength of the child

• size/strength of the dog

• energy level of the dog

• behavior of the dog

Each child/dog combo is unique, so you'll have to carefully consider your own situation. A two-year-old may be able to walk your senior Daschund who moves as slow as a snail with some supervision. On the other hand, even a tween may not be able to handle the energy and strength of a young Boxer.

It's important to consider what kind of a walker your dog typically is. Under normal circumstances, how does your dog walk? Has he been leash trained? Does he walk along the sidewalk next to you in a relaxed fashion, or does he dart here and there, veering under every bush to check things out? Does he pull on the leash? If your child is able to handle what your dog dishes out, then it's a go. The age of the child should always be considered, however. Even if your five-year-old can appropriately handle the family chihuahua, a five-year-old should not be navigating the neighborhood alone. Young children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult or older sibling.

What's even more important to consider is how your dog will behave in an unusual situation. What would happen if a squirrel suddenly darted across your path? Would your dog spring into action and pull you up a tree to get to it? Or what if you encounter another dog? Even if your dog gets along well with others, you never know who you'll meet. You might run into Kujo. Can your child handle those extreme situations that can happen in an instant? If not, you need to walk within inches of your child and pooch, prepared to take over, should the need arise.

I allow my eight- and six-year-old to walk our 11-pound , 9-year-old mixed terrier. She has quite a bit of energy even though she is getting on in years, but she walks fairly well on a leash, and when she gets excited about something enough to pull, the kids have the strength to control her. I walk with them, however, because I feel that A) they are too young to be out and about on their own, and B) they may not be able to handle a sticky situation, such as a brush with a not-so-friendly or off-leash dog. If we encounter a situation like that, I simply take over the responsibility of holding the leash until the unpredictable situation has passed.

If your child isn't ready to walk the dog independently, you can do as I do or even allow your smaller child to hold the leash with you. It can be a bit awkward for two people to hold the leash, but if it's safer that way for your situation, it's a great way to get your child involved in the task.

does it matter how a child holds a leash?

You may not think so, but it's important for the safety of the dog and the walker, regardless of age. A proper leash hold will allow your child control and will prevent the potential for injury or a loose dog. Below, you'll see a couple of common mistakes as well as the the best hold.

One of the most common ways children hold a leash is the wrist wrap-around position. It seems ultra-secure because it almost guarantees that the child won't let go of the leash. And therein lies the problem. The child really can't let go of the leash, something that is necessary in some emergency situations. Though it's important for a child to have a secure hold on the leash, there must be an escape, and the wrist wrap-around hold does not allow that.

The four-finger grasp leaves a lot of room for error.

The four-finger grasp is another common leash hold for a child. It is natural and easy, but has just the opposite problem of the wrist wrap-around hold. This hold does not allow enough security, as the leash can easily be pulled from the child's grasp.

The best way for a child (or anyone) to hold a leash is the thumbs-up hold, pictured here. It may seem a bit awkward at first, and it may not feel as secure, but rest assured that it is. Ask your child to give you a classic "thumbs up" gesture. The leash is grasped by the child's four fingers, then looped around the thumb. The thumb stays up to prevent the leash from being yanked from your child's grasp, but your child can quickly let go in an emergency situation. It's the best of both worlds, secure, yet safe.

With the proper leash hold, your child and dog can learn to walk well together. Though each child/dog combo has a unique set of circumstances and requires individual evaluation, there are some deal-breakers:

• Any child under the age of five should not independently hold a leash.

• A child of any age should not be allowed to walk a dog he can't control. This is true of adults, as well. If the dog can not be controlled on a leash, leash training is a must.

• Children under the age of ten should always be supervised when dog-walking.

• Children should never walk a dog who is aggressive toward other people or animals.

• Children should never walk multiple dogs at the same time.

• Retractable leashes pose many dangers and should not be used by children (nor is it my advice for anyone to use them)

When proper technique is used and your child can control the animal, dog-walking is a great way for your child to get involved in the family chores and bond with your pooch. It is a fun activity, and the exercise and fresh air will be great for both human and canine. So get out there and work together to ensure everyone is safe, secure, and happy!

How does your child help with the family pets?

This article, written by me, originally appeared as a contributor post on Brie Brie Blooms. It has been posted here with minor changes with permission.

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your baby and your pets: 10 tips for a smooth introduction

March 30, 2015 Kristen Carr

When you're expecting a baby, everyone in the household must make adjustments and compromises, including the family pets. It's important to have a smooth transition as baby and pet get to know each other. This process is more critical for pets who have never been around small children before, but even canine and feline veterans may need some brushing-up when a new little person enters the family. Here are ten tips to help you introduce your baby to your pet:

1. Maintain control. If you have a dog, make sure training is in order. If your dog is prone to jumping on you as you walk into a room or jumping on your lap as you sit down on the couch, it's time to set some boundaries. Your lap will soon contain a baby, so make sure your pet is in control. It's great to lap-share, but it must be on your terms, and it must be safe for everyone involved in the cuddling session.

2. Don't go in green. Especially if your pet has not been around babies before, it's important for him to get used to the sounds and smells of babies. If you have friends with babies, invite them over! Exposing your pet to the antics of tiny humans will be an advantage moving forward.

3. Bring on the goods. A new baby requires lots of stuff, and this can all be a bit scary to your dog or cat. Make sure your cat doesn't make the pre-baby empty crib his napping place, and it's best to activate the motorized cradle swing in advance so your dog doesn't bark at it incessantly once baby is relaxing in it. If you make sure to introduce your pet to the baby paraphernalia before the baby arrives, it will be one less thing to worry about.

4. Stroll. If you plan to walk your dog with a stroller, practice first. It may seem simple, but walking a dog and pushing a stroller can be a tough combo. It might look a bit odd to walk an empty stroller around your neighborhood with your dog (I did it and got some looks), but you will be so happy you did. Much better to get the leash tangled in the wheels before there's a baby in the stroller.

5. Talk it out. If you have a name for your baby, use it in conversation. Your pets are listening. Dogs are thought to understand about 165 words, and cats between 25 and 35, so if your baby's name is introduced early, they can incorporate it into their vocabulary and become more familiar with it.

6. Use their keen sense of smell to your advantage. If you have a lotion or oil you plan to use on your baby's skin, apply it to your own skin in the weeks leading up to your baby's birth. Your pets will recognize it and feel more accepting of the new little person.

7. Give your pet a security blanket. If you have the opportunity, bring one of your baby's hospital blankets home to your pet before you come home with the baby. Your pet will be able to smell the baby before she even comes home, which will help your pet feel more secure.

8. Decide on a pet sitter. Who will take care of your pets while you are giving birth? It's a great idea to line up a family member or professional pet sitter to step in while you are at the hospital. I have been "on-call" for several expecting clients in the past, and it's a pleasure to hop into action at the most exciting moment of their lives. But a word of caution: don't send a stranger in. Make sure your pet is familiar with the person providing care during your absence so you can keep stress levels down.

9. Keep it casual. An elaborate presentation of the baby to the pet is not necessary or beneficial. Bring your baby home with minimal pomp and circumstance, and dive right into the routine you intended. Your pet will be much more relaxed if baby is not presented as an exciting new toy. Try to keep visitors to a minimum for the first few days. If you have visitors, don't throw a huge "welcome baby" party in your home. The extra chaos will only cause stress for your pet.

10. Maintain status quo. A new family member will naturally throw a monkey wrench into the routine. Do your best to maintain your pet's routine. If a morning walk is the norm, then keep that habit up. If your cat is fed in the evening at a certain time, try to maintain that. Your pets will feel more secure and comfortable if their expectations are being met, so they will be more apt to adjust to the new addition. And that just makes life easier for you!

All interactions with pets and babies or small children should be closely supervised, regardless of how much preparation you've done. Until you see your baby and pet interact on a regular basis, you'll need to observe and make adjustments. Regardless of how interactive a relationship you want your pets and baby to have, always remember that you dictate the parameters of the relationship. By protecting all parties involved, we set our families up for a lifetime of happiness and fun. Pets and babies together could not be a better, more adorable, combo! Let's make sure we give everyone the best opportunity to succeed together as a larger, better family.

This article, written by me, originally appeared as a contributor post on Brie Brie Blooms. It has been posted here with minor changes with permission.