As the COVID-19 pandemic takes over the news, social media, and your everyday life, you naturally are worried about how to keep your pet safe. The following three facts will help you and your pet stay safe and healthy during these troubling times, so read on for more details.
#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:
- CVO (The College of Veterinarians of Ontario)
- OVMA (Ontario Veterinary Medical Association)
- WHO (World Health Organization)
#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 and an essential service, 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, our adjusted protocol is as follows:
- Updated hours — We are closing at 5 pm Monday through Friday and temporarily stopping Saturday appointments.
- Curbside appointments — When you arrive, we ask that you wait in your car and call us at 519-376-7387, and a team member will come to get your pet. Don’t worry: We know this may seem very different, but we will treat them with the respect and love that we always give them.
- Increased sanitation — We have increased our already rigorous sanitation routines, and are more frequently wiping down doorknobs, counters, and commonly used items.
- Medication and food — Medication refills are limited to a 1- to 2-month supply, depending on stock. We ask that if you need food or medication, please call ahead and we can process your invoice over the phone. We can then have one of our staff bring the items to your vehicle when you come to pick up. You can also shop through our online store. We are experiencing a delay of 3-5 days from our supply chain.
If your pet needs medical treatment, we are still here to provide the highest standards of care. Please check our Facebook page for our current operating policies before you head out. Contact us if you have any questions or concerns. We greatly appreciate your understanding during this challenging time. Stay safe!
