Harmony at Home: Introducing Your New Puppy/Kitten to Young Children
Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is an exciting time for young families, and while kids and pets seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly, the first interaction can set the stage for the pet-child relationship going forward.
In this blog, our caring team at Trusted Friend Animal Clinic helps pet owners understand how to make family-friendly pet introductions for a lifetime of harmony at home.
Preparing for Family-Friendly Pet Introductions
It’s heartwarming to watch a child and pet develop a strong bond, and before you know it, your kids will be able to help groom, feed, and safely play with their new puppy or kitten. But before the initial face-to-face interactions, there are key preparations to make:
- Explain to your children the importance of using a quiet voice, approaching the pet slowly, and giving the pet plenty of space.
- Practice with your child how to greet a pet for the first time using a stuffed animal.
- Plan the first introduction in an open space, such as the center of a room, where the animal won’t feel cornered.
- Schedule the introduction for a time of day when you aren’t rushed.
Tips for Introducing Pets to Children
Once you’re ready for the initial interactions, keep in mind these top three tips for introducing pets to children:
#1: Keep Family-Friendly Pet Introductions Calm
Puppies and kittens are often shy and uneasy around strangers. Never force the new pet to interact with a child. Allow your child to take a few slow steps toward the pet and stop. Give the puppy or kitten the chance to come the rest of the way to meet the child.
If the pet chooses to keep his or her distance, have your child toss a treat across the floor. Your pet will start to have a positive association with your child.
If the pet moves close enough for a quick pat, let the child gently pet the kitten or puppy for just a few seconds and stop. Let the pet decide if more affection is wanted!
#2 Designate a Safe Space for the Puppy or Kitten
Make sure your new puppy has a crate (or puppy playpen) with soft blankets, and provide your kitten with a kitty cave or comfy bed in a corner. Explain to your children that these are “safe spaces” where the new pet is not to be disturbed.
#3 Supervise All Pet-Child Interactions
Regardless of how cuddly and calm your new pet may seem, do not leave your child alone with a new pet. Kitten and child interactions can lead to unintentional scratches, and energetic puppies may accidentally nip an unsuspecting child. Teach your children to approach slowly, touch gently, and play safely with a new pet—and to always ask for your permission first.
Whether you want to make the perfect puppy intro to children or create safe kitten and child interactions, we’re here to help! Contact our team at (404) 907-1404 for more tips for introducing pets to children.