When it comes to babies and pets, many people become a gooey, mushy mess, and you will often find the two go hand in hand. A new baby in the household signals a change in home life, and for pet lovers, this can also be the perfect time to introduce a new pet, allowing the baby and pet to grow up together.

Even those who prefer pets over little humans often refer to their pets as "fur babies," lavishing them with as much, if not more, attention than many other humans in their life! This is why Linku2 felt “Nappies and Paws” would be an apt Feature for our local pages on Babies and Kids as well as our Pets and Animal Services!

When expecting a baby, there’s a lot to consider before, during, and after pregnancy. Basics like finding a midwife, maternity wear, nursery furniture, and health services are essential. For optimal health, pre and post-natal exercises and activities are recommended and in the wider family situation you need to of course consult with parents over what they will be called to avoid duplication or conflict!! You can check out some options for both names for Grandma and names for Grandpa.

Sometimes it's the little things that can become stressful when they should be a joy such as choosing a baby name! If you're looking for a girl name and would like to consider something a little out of the ordinary you may get some inspiration from our Unusual Girl Names for Inspiration article.

Once baby arrives, your focus will shift to amusement tactics including toys and playgrounds and parks for outings and remember we are blessed on the Coast with a host of local beaches!

Soon, you’ll find a need to consider baby activities like baby and toddler swimming lessons, with great options available at Northern Arena and Stanmore Bay Pool and Leisure Centre. Party ideas and enrolling in preschool or childcare will follow quickly. Fame Preschool offers excellent teacher-to-child ratios and learning/play programmes. And of course if you are looking for great things do do as the kids need entertainment, we are lucky to have lots of things to do across the Coast and North Shore including great family fun for all ages with Snowplanet especially for the little ones in their Winter Wonderland!

Turning now to your fur babies! Now we are into the depths of the colder winter weather sometimes we forget just how much the weather can also affect our pets. Here are a few tips for those dog owners on How to keep your dog warm in Winter.

And if you don't yet have a family pet you may be interested to read some of the greatest benefits from owning a pet. Once you do take the plunge and bring the fur baby into your home ensure you have a good local vet and keep vaccinations up to date.

Knowing your local kennels, catteries, and groomers is important, as well as where to find your local pet shops.

Regardless of whether you’re planning to have a baby, already have little ones racing around the house, considering a new pet or already have a home full of fur babies, there are plenty of local options and choices for you to get the best care and services which you can find on our local Babies and Kids and Pets pages. You don’t even need to leave the Coast.

Let’s explore these options together and support our local businesses to Go Local, Grow Local!