Bringing Home Baby

by Linn Boyke, Dog Behavior Expert

So many of my clients are scared/excited/hopeful about that moment the dog meets the new baby. But, what about the next couple of weeks where there will be a lot of visitors, maybe grandparents staying to help? With so many people going in and out of the house, it is a good idea to board your dog or leave him/her with a friend to limit the potential stress and confusion for your dog family member. Plus, the new mom and dad can focus on the baby and enjoying visiting family and friends without worrying what will happen.

I have seen dogs escape, become reactive out of confusion (who are all these strangers in my house?) and even begin to guard the new fragile family member and not in a productive way. This can create behavior that can last a lifetime and can be very difficult to undo. Remember, to a dog, Perception is Reality. If the animal perceives that visitors are a threat, he or she will behave as if they are a threat. Limiting their interaction during this time will ensure a smooth transition.
 
"But, I don't want my dog to think I am abandoning him/her!" The good news is, dogs have no concept of time. They will be on vacation with a trusted dog sitter or friend and have a great time. When your canine pack member returns home, he or she will be well relaxed and ready to continue to assimilate to the new pack member in the house.
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Catch Linn's Upcoming Hot Topic Lecture

Click here for more info and registration.

with Vered Benhorin
June 16th in Santa Monica:
0-6 months at 1:30pm
6-12 months at 2:30pm
Call 310-998-1981 to register.

June 18th in Hollywood:
0-6 months at 3pm
6-12 months at 4pm
Call 323-469-5300 to register.

In this workshop you will learn how to use music to connect with your baby. We will talk about how to use music to establish routine, what sounds are soothing, how music can help with sleep and enhance play, how to communicate with your baby through music, and how to introduce rhythm and tone. With the older babies we will do a baby drum circle and will use movement and musical play with balls.

Award winning music CD "Good Morning My Love," included with class.
Click here for more info and registration.

with Barbara Zimmermann
RN, BSN, IBCLC, CEIM
For Moms and Expectant Moms
June 20th at 1pm

Infant massage is an ancient art practiced in many cultures and passed down though generations of mothers. Recent research confirms what grandma already knew, babies grow better and act better with nurturing touch. Come and learn about the benefits of infant massage, how to listen and communicate with your baby, and develop a loving and nurturing relationship that can last a lifetime. Although you will not learn how to do a full body massage, a few strokes for gas and fussy tummy relief will be taught during this session.

 Click here for more info or call 310-998-1981.

Upcoming Classes in Westlake Village

Email Stephanie@PumpStation.com

to request information.

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• July 3 10am - 6pm

• June 25th 10am-4pm
• July 22nd 10am-4pm

In Westlake Village:

• July 24th 10am-3pm 

Westside Nannies Backpack Give Back!!!!

Heather of Westside Nannies had the opportunity to serve down in Ensenada, Mexico over Memorial Day weekend and there is a great need for backpacks and school supplies.

There are 2 ways you can help:

1. Donate to fill a pack
   $60 = 1 Pack
   $100 = 2 Packs
   $200 = 4 Packs
2. Fill a Pack (or 2) Yourself

Click here to get details and donate today!