It is quite common place for many homes to have a pet. In fact the popularity of owning a pet has risen over the years and, with the recent trend for celebrities to have a designer dog carried every where with them, the numbers are rising.

Along with the responsibility of owning a pet you will have to consider the huge responsibility of being a new parent and assess the safety implications your pet may have for your baby.

A major concern is that an existing pet can become very jealous when a new baby arrives on to "their" territory. Sadly many children suffer injuries by the family pet, regarded as previously harmless, due to simple jealousy.

A dog is a pack animal and as such learns it's place in the family. A new baby to a dog can be regarded as below them in pack order if an owner is not careful to train them other wise. Alternatively a faithful dog can become over protective of the new baby and be aggressive to visitors who approach the child.

It is not only a dog that may poise a risk, as cats can also injury a baby. They can easily scratch a baby's delicate skin or worse their eyes causing possible issues for the future.

Although a cat may be happy to have a new family member be aware cats enjoy cuddling up to anyone and this can include the baby. Cats are extremely agile and equipt to climb almost anything including into the stroller or babies crib. There is a real risk that your child can suffocate if your cat is keen to sleep with your baby. You can buy nets designed to keep a cat from climbing into a crib or stroller.

If you have a pet you will need to carefully observe their behavoir around your baby and take immediate action if there are any signs of threat. Your babies safety is paramount.

Sadly you may find that you have to re home your pet or at least have it looked after until your child is older and it is safer to return them.

If you do have a pet, or pets you will have to be constantly vigilant. You can not be too over protective when it comes to your baby and an animal. Remember animals are unpredictable and even the gentlest natured ones can behave out of character which is not a risk worth taking, Remember you will visit many friends and relatives who may have pets, again be very wary around them and never leave your baby unattended around an animal.