What happens when Fido already rules the roost and then you bring home the new prince or princess from the hospital? Anxiety for starters. But it doesn’t have to be that way. As long as you prepare Fido and yourselves for your new family of four, it can be all good for everyone involved. Below are 4 basic ways to go from canine to crib and keep the peace and harmony in your house:

• Start preparing as soon as possible-make the changes that will affect Fido now, like feeding times or evening walks or sleeping locations; the sooner you establish the new rules, the better.
• Be fair-once you’ve made new rules, stick to them; don’t leave the baby’s toys on the floor if you don’t want Fido to be tempted.
• Share the love-Fido may have been the sole recipient of your undivided attention for a long time now; he’ll happily share as long as he still gets his fair shake.
• Ask for help-you’re not the first and you won’t be the last new parents who need help with keeping the peace between the babe and the hound; ask the experts-from vets to shelters to experts online.

Looking for the perfect first pet for your kids? Would you consider a rodent? What if I told you that the rodent has short, glossy fur and squeaks with delight whenever its favorite human comes near by? Larger than a hamster but smaller than a rabbit…It’s a guinea pig!

According to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA®), guinea pigs make ideal starter pets for older children who have mastered proper handling techniques. And while they’re not pigs and not even from New Guinea (they’re native to South America), they are excellent companions for kids.

General information about guinea pigs is listed below. Lots more information regarding cost, housing, diet, general care, and veterinary care can be found at ASPCA.

Guinea pig guidelines:

• Can weigh a couple of pounds
• Usually live for 5 to 7 years
• 3 different breeds with 3 kinds of fur [1] short and glossy [2] fluffy tufts or [3] long and silky
• Docile members of the rodent family who rarely bite
• Social animals who like to live in small groups
• Will multiply like rabbits-keep boys and girls separated!
• Expect to pay between $500 and $600 a year to keep a guinea pig happy and healthy

Lots of very important information, including a great guinea pig supply checklist, is provided by ASPCA on their website. There are many wonderful guinea pigs at shelters and small rescue groups who are in need of good homes so adoption should be your first option. If you go to a breeder, make sure they’re responsible.

Adding a guinea pig to the family is a huge responsibility and everyone needs to commit to helping provide a healthy and happy environment for the newest member of the family. This is a lifetime commitment that brings a lifetime of love.