Welcoming a newborn baby into the family can no doubt be challenging at times, especially when animals are involved. That's why The Yorkshire Vet's Matt Jackson-Smith is here to give his top tips on how to help a dog integrate into your new family.
The TV star, who knows a thing or two when it comes to caring for animals, welcomed his first child Anastasia Maria with wife Katherine last month, and exclusively introduced the newborn to OK!.
Anastasia was born at 2.21pm on 25 October via a planned C-section, weighing 7lb 9oz, and when we meet the adorable newborn, she is nestled in her mum’s arms and soon falls asleep.
"Everything has changed in a short space of time, but in the same sense it feels like she’s always been a part of us. She’s slotted into our lives perfectly,” Matt gushed.
And now, she's fully settled into their rural home near Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, alongside her animal friends Harry the dog, a snake called Storm, and Dennis the bearded dragon.
Her mum Katherine also revealed that Anastasia has really bonded with them in such a short space of time, especially Harry.
"They’re such a big part of our lives so we introduced them early on. It’s easy to worry about how they’ll react, but Harry couldn’t be a better dog. He’s really taken to her and loves a cuddle. He’ll sit with me when I give Anastasia her morning feed."
Here, Matt gives his advice on how to make sure both the animals and babies feel comfortable…
Make sure they've got a safe space that's just for them
Harry has got his bed in the kitchen, a bed in mine and Katherine's bedroom, and he's got a mat upstairs that's just for him as well.
He's felt really safe since Anastasia's arrived because we've made sure he had his own areas.
Take it slow
We've let Harry come to Anastasia and not forced the baby upon him. It's important you let them do things in their own time and let them be introduced slowly to the new arrival.
Make sure you stick to their routine
As Anastasia gets older she's likely to cry and bit more and be up during the night, and this could be disruptive to Harry.
Routine is key to making sure your dog, or any pet, feel like they are included and to make sure they're as happy as possible.
The Yorkshire Vet is available on my5.tv
Words: Eve Macdonald, Photos: David Cummings, Assistant: Alice Medlock, Stylist: Charlotte Burton, Hair and Make-up: Cassie Steward using Armani Beauty, Videographer: Courtney Hobbss
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