Childproof Your Pet

Veterinarian Carol Osborne explains several methods for introducing and familiarizing dogs with a new baby.

• Play a tape recording of baby sounds to desensitize your dog to the sounds of a baby. Crying and loud screams could alarm the dog if not used to these sounds.

• Change diapers and dress a doll in the presence of the dog before the baby arrives.

• Take a baby doll for a walk in the stroller with your dog. Make sure your dog isn't dragging on the leash while you try to push the stroller.

• Train your dog to play with his toys, NOT the baby's. One way to do this is to put a dab of mouthwash on the baby's toy for a month while training him.

• Let the dog sniff the baby when he or she first arrives home.

* Note: Never leave your baby or child unattended with a dog. It's essential that the dog has a basic understanding of good behavior.

Guests
Dr. Carol Osborne
Veterinarian / Animal Expert / Author
16903 Chillicothe Rd.
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Fax: 440-543-1278
E-mail: osbornedvm@aol.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-120
•	Childproof Your Pet
•	Smart Solutions of the Day