As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, you might be wondering about what this means for caring for your pets. The following three facts will help you and your pet stay safe and healthy during this crisis.
#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 are currently offering curbside/concierge service for all appointments to decrease foot traffic and spread of COVID-19. We are also offering telemedicine for our current clients that have up-to-date physical exams with one of our doctors. We can do this through FaceTime or Zoom if we also need to see your pet.
Please understand that we are trying to protect the population at large and our Paw Haven family while still offering quality service to our clients and pets. Contact us if you have any questions, and be sure you follow us on Facebook for updates. Stay safe!