When anticipating the arrival of a new baby, special care must be taken to prepare the family pets for the big changes to come. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition from pet-centered to baby-centered living. Before baby comes home: Change your pet’s environment gradually Create barriers to areas of the home Prepare your pet for baby sounds Prepare the pet for baby smells Start training now After baby comes home: Try to keep your pet’s schedule intact Always supervise Without question, it takes time and effort to prepare a dog for a baby, but it is time and energy well spent. Planning ahead and erring on the side of caution can help everyone live a long and happy life together.