Hi... my first post here...

Um, well, I've been trying to have a baby and I have several dogs in my house and a lot of people have been telling me it's better not to have dogs as it's easier to get pregnant without them. They're also saying that I might have crippled baby because of the virus or something from the dogs... Is this true?

Thanks for replies

Hiya I'm 19 weeks pregnant and I have an 18 month old alsatian. As long as you wash your hands after "poop scooping" or any messy foods like raw tripes etc and stop the dog jumping up at your bump when you arrive home it should be ok. Touch wood I've been fine with just keeping my hands clean and my bump protected.
Good luck with TTC and Welcome

xXx

I would do some more research and ask your doc about preg and pets. Even ask your vet. That is really interesting. I know so many people that have had babies and dogs, and everything is fine with them so...try not to worry too much. I personally, would never get rid on my dog if I were preg, just have to be sanitary and keep them away from the baby most of the time.

Sounds wrong to me hun. I have 2 dogs and I have always had dogs. that is the first time I have ever heard that. Now as for cats, that is a different story. You should not change or handle the kitty litter if you are pregnant. Your safe with your doggies.

I have not heard anything about pregnant peeps and dogs before., except for the pooper scooping ( in all honesty thats hubby job anyway ) and washing your hands afterwards.

I have heard a few things about cats though while pregnant and after, but again there's no reason not to keep them, just be aware of what you are doing.

When I went to the docs just before Christmas as I wanted more advice on ttc she asked me what kind of excercises etc I do so I said walking the dogs gym and aqua aerobics ( although I'm still overweight) The doc actually said it was good for me and and the walking ( as long as not strenous) will help tone and relax the brain but said nothing about the dogs interferring apart from as long as they don't pull you over when you are pregnant!

Thats just people over reacting. Animal science is what I studied in college and the industry I worked in until very recently. There is no reason that it would be harder for you to get pregnant because you have dogs in your house. If anything people say animals relieve stress which would be a positive thing.

As for the crippled baby thing, dogs can carry a few parasites which can cause a range of problems but its VERY rare to catch this. It's just about good hygiene and keeping your dogs regularly wormed. It may sound obvious but it's more important than ever to make sure that nothing comes into contact with your mouth that has been in contact with your dog. That means thinking before you bit your nails (like I do) if you've touched the dog or not letting them get where you sleep or lay down like your bed or sofa because they have a habit of leaving behind an area of shedded hair and grit from their coats and with it possibly the parasites too.

I think the reason you hear more about cats is because it's believed dogs don't shed toxoplasmosis through their poop but cats do. Also cats tend to get everywhere to spred this, where as dogs only go where you let them. The biggest one in dogs is toxocariasis but there are others. It's just much more rare to catch it.

I only even heard of cats being a problem - and even then it's only the toxoplasmosis in their faeces thats the issue.

If I couldn't have my dogs around when TTC I would NEVER get my BFP!!! They are my babies....they keep me calm and sane.

Im actually a dog walker and also do home boarding and when I went to the doctors recently about trying to conceive she said what a perfect job to keep me fit during pregnancy but not to push myself and to make sure I use an anti bacterial gel after picking up pooh. I also do cat feeding visits. I was told to steer clear from cat litter or if i have to empy it make sure I use gloves and then wash my hands with an anti bacterial wash after.

Unfortunately because some people are misinformed about pets before during and after pregnancy is why alot of poor dogs and cats end up needing homes.

I have 2 Dogue De Bordeauxs and 2 cats and there is no way they would ever be going any where.

Katie
x

My BIL asked me if I'd be 'getting rid' of my two cocker spaniels when I get preg...... erm...I dont think so....

To Mervs mum

Its shocking isnt it. My dogs and cats are my babies too. They help you alot too whilst your trying to get pregnant always there for you when you need someone for a cuddle.

Ive just noticed your in West Yorkshire. Where abouts? So am I