Previously, I wrote about getting your dog ready for the day that you have your baby and bring him/her home. This time I'd like to cover some of the things that you should do for the actual meeting and beyond.

First impressions are very important when you have your baby and puppy meet. Whatever goes on in this initial meet will set the tone for the upcoming years and months for everyone involved.

Many things could happen, but if you follow these steps you'll make the first meet go as planned.

• The most important step is to have someone else carry the baby inside the home so that you'll be free to greet your dog. He's going to be very happy to see you since you've been away having babies and not there for him.

• It's a good idea to bring your dog home a new toy that you can introduce him to and take some time to play with him. This will help the two of you to bond and hopefully tire him out a little.

• When it's time for the introduction you may consider leashing him if it makes you feel safer. Show him the baby while you talk to the dog and make him feel safe. Let him sniff your baby's feet and hands without ever forcing him to do anything. Let him go at his own pace.

• Just to state the obvious, never leave them together unattended. Dogs can easily smother a young baby accidentally just by loving them. And you never know when a baby might make a quick or unexpected move that could scare your pup and cause him to nip or bite out of fear. If your dog ever acts the least bit aggressive, remove him from the room immediately. Keep them apart and try another introduction when the dog is calm.

• After everything seems to be calm and going well, try sitting on the couch with the baby on one side and your dog on the other. Talk to them both as equals and show your pup that you love them both. While your dog is nice and relaxed, pop him a treat to show that good things happen when he sits nicely with the baby.

• Your life has now changed for ever and you will have many things to learn and adjust to, but always remember that your pup needs your love too. Try to keep to as regular schedule as possible and you'll find that in no time at all, baby and dog will be the best of friends and bring much joy to your life.