Pet parents who bring home a newborn always have to go through an adjustment period. There is a learning curve for the introductions and setting boundaries with the pets. One mom has learned early on the guilt that might come with the new routines.
Daylee Weiss said in an April 23 TikTok video shared to her account @dayleeweiss that she has been overcome with remorse after realizing her dog is feeling replaced by the new baby. Koda, the 3-year-old goldendoodle, went from being the family’s baby to learning to share attention with the newborn.
In the clip, Weiss wraps Koda’s entire body in an embrace. It’s her way of expressing how much she loves him and apologizing for the lack of attention he has been receiving lately. With his head nuzzled into her chest, he accepts the apology.
The caption reads: “He deserved so much better than the little attention he gets in this season.”
@dayleeweiss/TikTok
Guilt is nothing new for pet parents. Owners might feel a sense of guilt after leaving their fur babies at home while they go off to work. Or maybe a pet gets sick and parents feel useless because they are unable to help or understand.
The important thing to realize is that pet parent guilt is normal and there are ways to make both you and your animals feel seen. If they are bringing home a baby, owners might want to consider preparing their cats or dogs beforehand. This includes adjusting their routines, figuring out where they will sleep with the baby in the house and considering a pet sitter or doggy day care facility.
Weiss told Newsweek via TikTok that she is trying to make it up to Koda with extra walks and cuddles whenever her baby is asleep or independent. She likes to include Koda in everything they do with the baby.
“He also gets treats 24/7 now that she’s on solids because she drops half her food on the ground and feeds him,” Weiss said.
While she still feels a sense of guilt at times, Weiss is optimistic about Koda and the baby’s relationship in the future.
“I know it will be great in the long run once she’s a little older and they can play,” Weiss said. “But I just feel sad that he doesn’t get the attention he used to when it was just him.”
How Did Viewers React?
Weiss’ honesty quickly drew attention on social media. The TikTok video has over 1.2 million views and 135,600 likes, with viewers offering support.
“The good thing about dogs? They don’t hold on to those feelings like that. Tomorrow is a new opportunity. And the next day,” said one viewer.
A second commented: “At least you recognize it. So many dog parents forget about their dogs once they have kids and it’s so sad.”
A third person wrote: “The way he embraces your hug, he understands I know it. He knows you love him as well. Just keep on loving.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our “Pet of the Week” lineup.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.