54 - Moving Concerns With Pets - What Every Pet Owner Needs To Know! (Guest Sophia Nijam - Waukesha County Humane Society)

Host: John Gscheidmeier
Guest: Sophia from the Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) of Waukesha

Episode Overview:

In this insightful episode of Wisconsin Real Estate Today, host John Gscheidmeier welcomes Sophia from HAWS to discuss the challenges and best practices of moving with pets. Whether planned or unexpected, relocation can be stressful for animals, and this episode provides expert advice on how to make the transition smoother for both pet owners and their furry companions.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding HAWS' Mission:
  • The Humane Animal Welfare Society (HAWS) supports Waukesha County with pet adoptions, education programs, and community assistance.
  • They aim to build a no-kill community and provide resources to help owners keep their pets.
• Challenges of Moving with Pets:
  • Moving can be extremely stressful for animals, particularly dogs and cats, who rely on routine and familiar surroundings.
  • Dogs may become anxious seeing moving boxes, new environments, and unfamiliar people.
• Essential Pre-Move Considerations:
  • For Renters & Condo Buyers:
    • Research pet policies before committing to a new lease or purchase.
    • Some landlords and condominium associations have breed or weight restrictions.
  • Preparing Your Pets for the Move:
    • Gradually introduce moving boxes and changes to avoid overwhelming them.
    • Create a safe space for pets on moving day to reduce stress.
• Moving Day Strategies:
  • If possible, arrange for someone to watch your pet during the busiest parts of the move.
  • Introduce pets to the new home gradually—let them explore room by room.
  • Walk dogs around the property on a leash to establish boundaries.
• Recognizing and Managing Pet Stress:
  • Signs of anxiety include panting, excessive licking, trembling, hiding, and avoiding eye contact.
  • Consider consulting a veterinarian if your pet struggles with anxiety.
  • Chewing and licking help produce dopamine, which can naturally calm pets.
• Post-Move Adjustments:
  • Provide consistency with feeding, bathroom breaks, and bedtime routines.
  • Check fences and yards for any escape points before letting pets roam freely.
  • Be patient—adjusting to a new home takes time for pets.
• Microchipping & Identification:
  • Ensure pets are microchipped and wear updated ID tags in case they get lost.
  • Register pets with the local municipality after moving.

Final Thoughts:

Sophia and John emphasize the importance of preparation, patience, and using available resources to ensure a smooth transition for pets. HAWS offers training, behavioral support, and other resources to assist pet owners in Waukesha County and beyond.

Resources Mentioned:

• HAWS Website: haws.org
• HAWS Main Line: [phone]

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