Pets COVID-19 Preparedness
Monday, March 16, 2020
Chautauqua County Humane Society Recommends Including Pets in COVID-19 Preparedness
With the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus on the rise worldwide, it is important for Chautauqua County area residents to include their pets in preparedness plans in the event that our local community is impacted, according to the Chautauqua County Humane Society (CCHS). Executive Director Kellie Roberts said “The more we plan ahead, the better we can handle situations like this where we have no idea how things are going to play out from one day to the next. As we plan we need to keep our pets in mind so they continue to receive the proper care should a medical or financial issue arise due to the effect of not just the Coronavirus, but any other life changing event that could happen. The CDC has sent a preparedness plan that can help us make sure our pets always have proper care.”
Make a preparedness plan for your pets:
· Identify a trusted family member or friend to care for your pets in the event that you become ill and are unable to provide care.
· Research potential boarding facilities to utilize in case boarding your pet becomes necessary.
· Have crates, food, and other supplies for your pet on hand should moving them becomes necessary or social exposure has to be reduced.
· All animal vaccines should be up-to-date in the event that boarding becomes necessary.
· Ensure that all medications are documented with dosages and administering instructions. Including the prescription from the prescribing veterinarian is also helpful.
· Pets should have identification including a collar with current tags and an accurately registered microchip.
CCHS recommends staying diligent in preparations but not overacting to COVID-19 concerns. By creating a preparedness plan ahead of time less stress will be on the pets, their owners, and animal service resources in the unlikely event that our area is significantly impacted by this virus.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association states that there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected with or spread COVID-19. This is also the view of the World Health Organization. However, as this is a rapidly evolving situation, people with confirmed COVID-19 should avoid contact with other people as well as pets.
The Chautauqua County Humane Society is a 501 (c)(3) not for profit organization serving Chautauqua County since 1905. CCHS’s mission is “To improve and save lives through compassionate care, advocacy for animals and commitment to the community.”