UK parents struggle with dog and baby
A new survey by the Dogs Trust and NCT, has found that 46 per cent of owners struggle to cope with their dog when their new baby arrives.
According to the survey, only 2 per cent of expectant parents considered giving up their dog. When the same question was asked of new parents, however, this figure rose to 17 per cent.
"We are seeing many perfectly happy and well behaved dogs being abandoned at our rehoming centres once their owners become pregnant or a new baby arrives," said Clarissa Baldwin OBE, Dogs Trust chief executive.
The findings also indicated that owners require more information on how to introduce their new baby to their current pet dog.
Of the 1,000 expectant parents surveyed, 18 per cent were advised by family, friends and health professionals to give up their dog before the new arrival. Findings suggest however that very little advice was given and 52 per cent of respondents said they would like more guidance from health professionals.
The Dogs Trust and NCT, the UK's leading charity for parents, have joined forces to produce a "New Baby" fact sheet, which is available on the Dogs Trust website. The leaflet aims to advise dog-owning parents-to-be of how to prepare for their new arrival.
NCT chief executive Belinda Phillips said: “All parents want the best for their new baby. Some may think this means giving up their dog, but by following some simple steps, new mums and dads can feel more confident about preparing themselves and their pet for their new arrival.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
