Korrect Kritters at Tampa Bay Birth Network

A few weeks ago I attended the Tampa Bay Birth Network Expo. TBBN is described on the website as, "If you're looking for a natural birth professional in the Tampa Bay area, you're in the right place! Here you can find midwives, birth and postpartum doulas, natural childbirth educators, pre- and post-natal fitness experts, natural baby products, and so much more! Our members believe that birth is a natural and normal event that doesn't usually require medical interventions, and they support six basic principles that make our group unique in the Tampa Bay community."  http://www.tampabaybirthnetwork.com/index.html

I represented Korrect Kritters to introduce the concept that babies and dogs can safely be introduced. Too often dogs are given away when a couple become pregnant. With proper management and preparation there's no reason why the dog must lose its home. There are very few dogs who cannot adjust to children in the home.

My favorite book on this subject is, Living with Kids and Dogs...Without Losing Your Mind: A Parent's Guide to Controlling the Chaos by Colleen Pelar, CPDT-KA. Colleen is a mom of three boys with her own dogs and foster dogs coming and going. Her book is filled with good practical information for keeping everyone safe. She also addresses the lifestages of children and how it can affect the family dog. Excellent book!

Think ahead and consider the following if you have a baby on the way:
Respect your dog as a family member. Your dog is not a jungle gym.
Teach your dog verbal cues so you can instruct when your hands are full.
Buy baby equipment, clothes, lotions, and toys now so the dog can get used to them before the baby arrives.
Could you walk your dog on a leash with a stroller?
How will you feel about your dog picking up a baby item?
How well can you read your dog's body language to identify stress?
How will you introduce the baby and dog?
Will your dog accept being crated or separated from you? Is this necessary in your home?
Does your dog react well to activity in your home?

If you already have a child(ren) and want to adopt a dog, what should you consider?

*****  ALWAYS SUPERVISE CHILDREN AND DOGS  *****

With some planning and forethought there are easy ways to manage almost every situation. To help plan for integrating your dog and baby or solve existing problems, contact Korrect Kritters. http://www.korrectkritters.com/

Other resources available are:
Dogs & Storks
Doggone Safe
.