There are many questions and concerns that have come up for pet owners in light of the COVID-19 crisis. It can be overwhelming to try to sift through all of the information (or misinformation!) that’s out there when it comes to the pandemic and what that means for pets. We want to share these three things to help keep you and your pet safe and healthy.
#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.
Currently, we have closed our lobby and are seeing patients without their owners in the clinic. Appointments that do require your pet to be seen with you in attendance will be seen in an outside enclosure. You can read more about our COVID-19 protocols here.
As always, please contact us if you have any questions! You can also check out our Facebook page for updates. Stay safe out there!