Once your pets understand that they won't be pushed away after the new baby comes home, they'll learn to accept this happy change in the family's life — and special bonds can begin to develop.

KNIGHT RIDDER

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A new baby changes the family dynamic. This change does not go unnoticed by the four-footed members of the clan.

But with a little preparation and patience, babies and pets can be a wonderful combination.

Too often when babies come into a family, pets are pushed out. It's understandable that parents are preoccupied and even concerned about the possible risks to this new fragile family member. So what, if anything, can be done to keep babies safe and pets from being neglected during this special family transition?

"Maintaining a predictable routine is critical to helping your pet adjust to changes in life," said Karen Johnson, an Oregon veterinary executive. "Most issues that come up between babies and pets can be prevented with a little advanced planning."

Johnson recommends to first schedule pets for a physical exam and consultation. A visit to the veterinarian can give you peace of mind that your pets are in optimal health, up-to-date on their immunizations, de-wormed, and are on a flea- and tick-prevention program that is effective and safe for even the youngest member of your family.

The nursery is decorated. You have a name picked out for baby, and you feel you are as ready as you are going to be. Now is the time to take these important steps to prepare your pets for the arrival of this new bundle of joy and a hectic, unpredictable time of life.

● Have your dog groomed, including trimming and filing the nails.

● Evaluate your dog's basic obedience training to ensure he understands and responds immediately to "sit," "stay," "down" and "off."

● If needed, consider enrolling in an obedience class. This is an important time to strengthen your positive and yet authoritative position with the dog.

● One of the most important skills to teach your dog before the baby's arrival is "contented confinement" indoors. Having a dog who rests quietly on his bed or in a kennel can make the difference between keeping the dog indoors versus abandoning the dog to the back yard. To teach contented confinement, put your dog on a 4- to 6-foot lead indoors with a comfy bed and attractive chew within reach. Connect the dog near you, and praise calm behavior. As your dog adjusts to this routine, extend the length of time your dog is tethered.

● Walk your dog near play areas in the park where there are baby sounds. Bring treats and ask parents if it is OK to have their small children throw your dog a treat. Although it is generally easier to socialize dogs at a young age, it's never too late. The key is to help your dog associate babies with treats. It is also important to supervise to prevent the dog from accidentally giving children any kind of painful or scary experience.

● Teach both dogs and cats before the baby arrives that the nursery is off-limits. Use a baby gate when you are not working on this new rule.

● Walking your dog daily is more important now than ever. It's also a good idea to exercise your dog before bringing the baby home. As Dr. Rolan Tripp, founder of www. AnimalBehavior.Net, says, "A tired dog is a good dog."

● Put your dog on a leash when you introduce the baby. Use a happy voice tone and have treats. Give the dog the perception that the baby is the beginning of "good times." Teach the dog to sit before putting the baby close for appropriate sniffing. Allow the dog to sniff the blanket first. Reward only calm behavior.

● Give pets sacred retreats indoors. Cats enjoy beds that are up high. Dogs prefer denlike places such as kennels. Both dogs and cats like five-star-rated bedding.

● Make this a time in your pet's life when extra good things happen. Prevent pets from feeling neglected, and you will have less misbehavior. Don't leave babies unattended with either dogs or cats. Even if you believe that your pets are gentle and accustomed to babies, adult supervision is essential at all times.

Introducing pets and babies to each other can be a little scary, but if it's done properly, it can be the beginning of a beautiful new family relationship. Preparation is the key.

As we all know, babies grow up fast. Young children must be taught how to interact with pets. Clear-cut rules and adult supervision will result in Kodak moments when kids cuddle pets. It's also the best way to raise children to respect pets as members of the family and understand the importance of being kind and gentle to all living things.

If at any time your pet shows signs of fear or anxiety when interacting with children, go immediately to your veterinarian or consult with an animal behaviorist for suggestions.