And They Call It... Puppy Love

It's amazing how a pet can completely change your life.

Two and a half years ago, my husband and I welcomed Fizzgig into our family. He's a four pound teacup poodle... but try telling him that. As far as he's concerned, he's the baby of the family.

And... with good reason. I mean, we baby him all the time.

Fizz is constantly smothered with attention and he goes more places than most young children. We're always focused on his needs. So, you can imagine my concern about bringing an actual baby into the family. I'm afraid he will be absolutely devastated.

I recently learned my in-laws had a dog when my sister-in-law was born... who actually died shortly after. Apparently, from a broken heart.

No pressure.

We've been racking our brains, trying to prep Fizz for this next phase. An article in Healthy Pet Magazine suggested bringing home a blanket with the baby's scent on it and placing it in his cage, along with treats and praise. They say it's important for your pet to equate the baby with good things. Makes sense, right?

But what if that doesn't work... or it doesn't work right away?

Our dog nearly freaked out last week because we were paying too much attention to the fish in our aquarium. I literally had to pick him up and show him the fish so he wouldn't be jealous.

Oh, I can picture it now.... one parent holds the baby while the other parent is forced to hold the poodle. Anyone know of some good tricks to prevent this from happening?