Pregnancy And Puppies

dynamic, babies, expecting, pregnancy - By Staff Writer on Thursday, November 11, 2010 - 13:53

Unlike cats which can carry Toxoplasma gondii a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis and can infect a fetus, dogs are not typically carriers of any serious illnesses you need to watch during your pregnancy.  However, just because there are no specific parasite that need to be watched for,  does not mean you do not need to take precautions with your dog when you are pregnant.  The major issues you should be aware of if you have dogs during your pregnancy are below.

Tripping/Falling
Regardless of the size of your dog falling or tripping is something you need to watch out for during pregnancy.  As your baby grows your center of gravity changes making it easier to tip you off balance.  Larger dogs will be able to pull you down easier if they are on leash and smaller dogs under foot could trip you.  Make sure you are vigilant when walking your dog or if they are running about near your feet.

Chemicals
If your dog takes medicine or you use medicated shampoo or other products for your dog be very careful what you touch.  Like with people products, many products for dogs contain chemicals that can be harmful to you when you are pregnant.  Check ingredients and wear gloves or have someone else administer medicines and use products as many chemicals can be soaked into your system through your skin.  If you do touch products make sure you wash your hands after to avid ingesting any.

Wash Hands After Park And Play
If you are taking your dog to the dog park make sure you wash your hands when home.  You should wash your hands after any games of catch or fetch with your dog as the ball or toy might end up on the ground.  You want to avoid contact with bacteria and parasites that exist in dirt and dog excrement as it could make you ill.

Watch The Jumping
Large dogs that jump could knock you over or hit your belly.  Teach any jumpers to stop jumping before you get big and this could become a problem.  If your dog jumps up just turn your back to her.  This will get her to hop down and will also protect your baby.

Dirty Bowls
Salmonella can live on dirty dog bowls which if touched can make you ill.  You should make sure you clean up and wash bowls immediately after your dog eats.  Use dishwasher safe bowls and wash the water bowl ever few days.  By keeping these clean you will avoid getting salmonella and becoming dangerously ill.

Raw Feeders
If you feed raw make sure you store your food safely.  This means refrigerating or freezing food not being eaten, cleaning up eating areas and washing your hands after touching raw foods.

Luckily there are not too many things you need to watch out for when you are pregnant and own dogs. These few simple steps can help you and your baby safe.