Press Releases

July 13, 2006
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Michelle Pintar
Phone: (414) 431-6104
E-mail: mpintar@wihumane.org

Welcome Home, Snoopy

MILWAUKEE – You just adopted Snoopy, an adorable 2-year-old Beagle mix. Snoopy is excited to get a car ride and doesn't seem to worry about where he is going. You, on the other hand, are a nervous wreck – you're afraid he might not adjust to his new home and get along with your toddler.

The Wisconsin Humane Society offers the following tips so that the transition of your new companion animal will be as smooth as possible for you and your family members:

·   If you adopt an animal from the Wisconsin Humane Society, family members meet the animal you wish to adopt prior to completing the adoption. This way, everyone becomes comfortable with the animal, and your furry friend will be less skiddish too.

·   Teach your new furry friend what is expected. Show him where he is to sleep, where he eats and where he can get fresh water. Take him to a selected spot to relieve himself every two hours.

·   When your new companion animal demands attention, ignore him. Interact only when you choose to, because this will help desensitize him and establish you as the pack leader.

·   Don't make a fuss when you leave or arrive. This will help your new companion animal to do the same and to learn that when you leave, you are coming back to the home you now share.

·   Never leave an infant or toddler unattended with your companion animal. Also teach your child not to take objects out of the animal's mouth.

·   Remember that your new companion animal is bound to be a little confused. At first, he may be shy, forget his manners or have an accident in the house. Be patient and understand that he is adjusting to a new situation just as much as you are.

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Interview/Photo Opportunity: Laura Lueck , Education Manager at the Wisconsin Humane Society, is available for interviews and photos in her home in Mequon, Wis. on Friday, July 14. Laura regularly fosters animals from WHS and introduces them to her 1.5-year-old son. To schedule a time, call Michelle Pintar at (414) 431-6104.