Six simple parenting hacks to ace being a furbaby mum or dad

Dr Fiona Patterson may well be the Dr Spock of the four-legged world, with her six masterful hacks helping ensure becoming a furbaby mum or dad remains a pure joy.

This Jack Russell is ready for a walk. Outdoor time is essential for all furbabies.

Dr Fiona Patterson may well be the Dr Spock of the four-legged world, with her six masterful hacks helping ensure becoming a furbaby mum or dad remains a pure joy.

Here are the top tips that the Mars Petcare veterinarian would love for all new furbaby parents to take in their stride.

Mars Petcare veterinarian Dr Fiona Patterson.

Have the right treats to reward good behaviour

This Boston terrier puppy chewed a hole in the bathroom door. It’s important to reward desirable behaviour during basic furbaby training.

Our pets aren’t born knowing how we would like them to behave – this is something we need to teach them. Effective training involves the use of reinforcers, which are things your pet likes. Many pets are food-motivated, so treats generally work well as reinforcers. Cut up treats into small pieces and keep them handy, such as in a treat pouch. Reward your pet when they display desirable behaviour so that they’re more likely to offer it to you in the future.

Give your pet a dedicated spot to sleep

Having their own designated bed has a range of benefits including creating boundaries.

Sharing a bed with your four-legged friend is a highly debated topic. While it can bring about a sense of security for both you and your pet, giving your pet their own designated bed to spend the night offers a range of benefits, like creating a strong sense of boundaries and easier training.

Make adjustments to accommodate your pet’s needs

All furbabies have unique and individual needs.

Pets are just like humans, in that they all have unique and individual needs when it comes to their home. Adjusting your home when you see your pet struggling is essential in maintaining your little one’s happiness and confidence. For those who may have trouble jumping, some portable pet steps are the perfect addition, and for those who take exploring a little too far, putting up some barriers in the home is a great way to keep your pet where you want them, particularly when you’re not home.

Make sure your pet has plenty of mental stimulation

Keeping your pet mentally stimulated is important so they don’t resort of undesirable behaviour. Picture Kazutoshi Ono / Animal Friends Comedy Pets

Keeping your pet mentally stimulated is essential for keeping their behaviour in check. Undesirable behaviour such as scratching and barking can happen when your pet becomes unsettled and doesn’t have enough stimulation to keep them occupied at home. Having a rotation of toys on hand is the best way to ensure your dog or cat always has something to keep them entertained.

Allow your dog free rein of the outdoors

A cat flap or pet door can allow greater independence and easy access to fresh air and outdoor play.

It can be difficult to ensure your pet gets the right amount of outdoor playtime while you’re juggling a busy lifestyle. Installing a pet door is the perfect solution to satisfy both a pet’s needs and your demanding schedule. Pet doors offer your pet freedom and control in determining when they want to be outdoors and result in fewer indoor accidents and undesirable behaviours due to boredom.

Mealtime sorted – know when to feed your pet at home

Kelpie cross Border Collie, Blue enjoying special doggie room service at the InterContinental Sydney Double Bay. Both dry and wet foods are key. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Routine provides consistency, which supports a pet’s emotional wellbeing. Keep to a meal schedule that’s suited to your pet’s age and life stage. Puppies and kittens need to be fed small meals frequently, while adult dogs can be offered two meals a day. Many adult cats prefer to graze, so in addition to some wet food, you can also leave out dry food for them to snack on. By feeding both dry and wet foods, you offer your pet many advantages and importantly a highly tasty meal with a variety of aromas.

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Originally published as Six simple parenting hacks to ace being a furbaby mum or dad