Pregnant dog owners often have concerns about the safety and welfare of themselves and their babies. Is it still okay to adopt a dog? Here are 10 important things to know about owning a dog during pregnancy.
10. Is It Safe to Have a Dog While You’re Pregnant?
During pregnancy, it can be perfectly safe to continue the activities you normally would with your dog if you take some safety measures. If you have a specific medical condition, speak with your doctor. You’ll have to curb your dog from jumping up on you or pulling the leash, especially if they’re strong enough to pull you over.
9. Do Dogs Understand You’re Pregnant?
Dogs don’t understand the idea of pregnancy. However, they can be sensitive to change. Their sense of smell can detect changes in human hormones, pheromones, emotions, and the menstrual cycle. Dogs will react to these changes accordingly. Dogs are also keenly aware of their owner’s behaviors. They will immediately detect differences in a pregnant person’s behavior and routine.
8. Do Dogs Act Differently When You’re Pregnant?
Because a dog is acutely aware of its owner’s behavior and routines, it will pick up on changes and react accordingly. This may be that the dog wants to be by your side more often or a bit less. During this time, it’s important to look for any signs of anxiety in your dog. Identify and avoid any triggers.
7. Can You Care For Your Dog While Pregnant?
Your dog needs regular walks and exercise, which is good for you both. Make sure your dog doesn’t pull you on the leash. Bathe your dog frequently. However, before DIY grooming, ensure your pet is clear of pests such as fleas or ticks, which could bite and infect you. Make sure your dog’s ears and toenails are kept clean.
6. Are There Hygiene Concerns?
There’s always a risk of infections spreading from animals to humans. Make sure your dog’s vaccinations stay up to date. Ensure your dog is free from pests such as fleas and ticks. Pet dander can be contaminated with allergens. If you have any cuts or scratches, keep them covered. Wash your hands after every time you touch a pet.
5. Can You Pick Up Dog Poop?
As long as there’s no chance of making contact with your pet’s feces, you can clean up your pet’s waste. Always use a pooper scooper or a plastic bag to ensure you will not make contact with feces. However, you may want to add an extra layer of protection by wearing disposable gloves anytime you will pick up dog poo.
4. Can You Kiss Your Dog or Let It Lick You?
Many people are in the habit of allowing their dogs to lick them or to kiss their dogs. But this can become risky while pregnant. When you’re expecting a baby, your immune system is temporarily suppressed, making you more susceptible to infection. That’s best not to kiss your dog or allow it to lick you during your pregnancy.
Read More: 10 Ways to Protect Your Pets in Your Will
3. Can You Adopt a Dog While You’re Pregnant?
It’s fine to adopt a dog while pregnant. A new dog might adapt easier to a household with a baby than a dog in a household that’s having its routine disrupted by the new arrival. However, if you’re in the late stage of pregnancy, it may be best to wait to adopt until after you have the baby.
Read More: Why Do Dogs Like to Lick Feet?
2. Can Dog Ownership Help Your Mental Health?
Some studies have shown that pet ownership can have mental health benefits for a pregnant mom. This includes reducing loneliness and stress, while also increasing physical activity. However, other studies have found that pet ownership can have the opposite effect on certain groups of pet owners. Everyone is different and has different triggers.
1. Can Dog Ownership Benefit Your Baby’s Health?
Owning a dog while pregnant may have a positive influence on a child’s immune system into adolescence, according to a 2020 study from the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Dogs tend to bring bacteria from outside the home that influences a child’s early microbiome. This makes the immune system mature and avoid developing allergies.
Read More: 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog
