Pet owners are naturally worried about how to care for their pets during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are three things we want you to know.
#1: Rely on reputable sources for current COVID-19 information
While you can turn to Facebook for insider information on where to find toilet paper, avoid using social media as your main source about COVID-19. Instead, rely on major animal and human health organizations for the most current, accurate research about this evolving situation. A few reputable sources include:
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- World Organization for Animal Health (OIE)
#2: There is no evidence to indicate pets can become ill with COVID-19
A major veterinary diagnostic laboratory tested thousands of canine and feline samples for COVID-19 when validating a veterinary test, but found no positive results. Additionally, the CDC and WHO have received zero reports of a pet who was ill from COVID-19. Based on the current evidence, health officials have declared there is no indication that pets can become sick from COVID-19. So, your coughing dog is likely not sick with COVID-19, but another disease, such as kennel cough, congestive heart failure, or a collapsing trachea.
#3: We’re taking every precaution to protect you and our team while still keeping your pet healthy
As a vital part of the health care community, we will remain open and continue to provide important medical care for your pet. As this situation continues to unfold, we may make protocol changes to protect everyone involved. We have already put the following in place:
- Curbside appointment — Call when you arrive, and a staff member will let you know how to proceed. Pets will be accepted curbside and treated inside the hospital. Please remove any harnesses or clothing from pets.
- Telemedicine — Telemedicine and phone consult services are now available for a fee for our current clients only.
- Increased sanitation — We have increased our already rigorous sanitation routines and are more frequently wiping down doorknobs, counters, and commonly used items.
You can read more about our protocols here.
Thank you for working with us to remain open and continue care for all your pets. Please follow us on Facebook for any changes to these policies as time goes on. Contact us with any questions or concerns.
