Pet Care During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Tuesday, 21 April 2020 06:46

Harley (pictured) doesn't know the value of toilet paper.

There are some things you should expect if you are needing to take your furry friend to the vet. Veterinarians have been ordered to delay elective or non-urgent procedures, they have also been encouraged to use telemedicine as much as possible.

OXFORD COUNTY - Humans aren't the only ones impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, our furry friends are as well.

Local Veterinarian, Dr.Glen Yates says there are some of the things we should be aware of during the pandemic when it comes to caring for our pets.

"In accordance with the Province of Ontario’s State of Emergency declaration, the College of Veterinarians of Ontario has mandated that all veterinarians must follow the new COVID-19 guidelines. These might be inconvenient but they are necessary at this time. Practices that are not taking appropriate measures to abide by these guidelines could be subjected to fines up to $10 million."

The guidelines each Veterinarian should follow include;
1. Delay elective or non-urgent procedures.
2. Use telemedicine as much as possible for client appointments.
3. Use non-contact methods when selling veterinary diets and medications
4. Ensure effective social distancing in the practice.

So can your pets get the potentially deadly virus? Dr.Yates says the research is still not 100% clear on whether or not your pet can get Covid-19.

"At the present time, researchers believe Covid-19 cannot be spread from pet to owner. Owners who have tested positive for Covid-19 should not continue practices that may contaminate their pet’s hair coat or pet supplies, which could then expose other people to the virus."

Because the research is still vague, Dr.Yates says as always, it is not wise to let your pets socialize with other pets when on walks.

"The vaccination status of other pets is not known, putting your pet at risk. The health status of the owner / walker is unknown as well, putting your health at risk. Maintain physical distancing for both your pet and yourself."

Dr.Yates says extra precautions should be made if you (the human) is tested positive for the virus.

"Owners who have tested positive for Covid-19 should not continue practices that may contaminate their pet’s hair coat or pet supplies, which could then expose other people to the virus."

If your pet takes medication, or has a special diet, Dr.Yates says it is important not to stock pile.

"If your pet’s medicine is a specialty order, then make sure supplies are readily available through your veterinarian. Most regular medicines and foods are shipping and available on a weekly basis. Stocking up for several months would threaten the supply of food available in the system."

There may be situations that arise where you do need to take your pet to the Vet. There are some things Dr.Yates says to keep in mind before going into the clinic.

"Please phone ahead to see if a certain time may be best. Discuss with the veterinarian whether a visit can be avoided by picking up a prescription medication from the veterinarian or by the use of home remedies. If a visit is recommended, make inquiries about how the visit will be conducted to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus, both to yourself and the veterinary staff."

Dr.Yates says it is important to keep your pets active during the pandemic.

"Pets still need exercise and since dog parks are closed, maybe play fetch, and go for long walks, avoiding other dogs and keeping your pet on a controlled lead. You will have a much happier dog if they stay active."

The government research and the regulations are constantly changing with COVID-19. Dr.Yates says we should all stay informed to protect your .

"These times can affect both human and animal health. We must remain patient and cautious for both human and animal welfare. Please keep your pets safe and restricted from other people, wildlife and other pets."

The extra time on your hands could be spent with your pet. It can be a great time for bonding or training just be safe and continue to practice physical distancing.

It is also a good idea to think life returning to normal. If your pets will be home alone when you return back to work, try stepping out of the house in small increments, leaving them behind and then build up to what a full work day will be.

Yates Veterinary Hospital has closed their Ingersoll location temporarily, the Woodstock location will remain open.

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