This is Winnie. Isn’t she precious? I love her beautiful brown eyes, her youthful spirit, and the feel of her fur as she pushes her body into mine for full body rubs. She is a sweetheart through and through. Families like hers are why I invest the time into my own learning growth as a licensed Family Paws parent educator. It is such important, fulfilling work to be able to help growing families in this way.
Winnie shares her home with two human parents and a two-month-old human baby sister. As can often happen for even the most gentle, laid-back dog companions, living with a baby can create stress for everyone.
I am so glad Winnie’s parents are pro-active in bringing me on board to support them in planning for increased safety, less stress and more harmony for everyone.
I have been licensed by Family Paws since 2021.
What does being a licensed Family Paws parent educator mean?
I graduated from a 13-week intensive class and throughout the year, attend educational opportunities and receive support from my friend and mentor, Jennifer Dawson Shryock, CEO of Family Paws.
We are a global network of professionals helping expecting parents, and parents of infants and toddlers to anticipate, prepare and establish guidelines that lead to increased safety and decreased stress for all family members – including the family dog.
It is work that I really enjoy. When a family includes a dog, it can and often does add stress to the home at a time when there is also a lot to be excited about.
If you know one of these growing families, please encourage them to seek support. They are not in this alone.
I am very appreciative to Family Paws, for spotlighting me in their last newsletter.
Why did I pursue being a licensed parent educator. This is my answer:
Family pets were an important part of my own childhood. Our dog was my best friend and confidant, so I understand the value in a dog-child and dog-family relationship.
I get why parents want their dog to be that friend to their young child. I get why their dog is such an important family member. Yet I often see, dogs, adults, and kids stressed when that dynamic is challenged. I want to do what I can to help these families see success.
While I couldn’t have my own children, I enjoy teaching, mentoring and bringing out the best in children (and companion animals) which is why I began kids’ classes on dog friendship.
This has led me to my work as a Family Paws educator. Supporting growing families that include a baby or toddler and a dog is a passion for me. This is a time of so much joy, and change…and, yes, stress. There are a lot of considerations when it comes to creating increased safety and less stress. It begins with education and planning ahead. Family Paws equips me with the knowledge, support and network I need, to be able to pass along to parents.
Are you an expecting parent, or parent of a newborn, toddler or young child? I’d love to be of help to your family too!
