With the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) on the rise, it is important to have the most up-to-date information about the disease and its potential impact on our families and community. This includes our pets. COVID-19 is contagious for humans and, as of now, is understood to spread primarily from person to person. The WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) Global Veterinary Community—an association representing more than 200,000 veterinarians—states that there is no evidence that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection to other animals or to humans. It is of course a rapidly evolving situation, and new information may emerge.
But even if your pets cannot contract the virus, they can still be impacted by its effect on our community. Here are some helpful ways you can include your pets in your preparedness plans.
Planning Ahead
As of now (3/12/2020) there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Monroe County. It’s important to have a plan should the virus begin to spread in our area. If you or someone in your home becomes sick with COVID-19, it is recommended that you limit interaction with your pets. Make arrangements for a trusted friend or family member to care for your pets in the event you require a period of quarantine.
Make Sure Everyone is Up-to-Date
Make sure pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations in case boarding or out-of-home sheltering becomes necessary. Any medications your pet is taking should be well documented and easily accessible as well.
Make Sure Pets are Easily Identifiable
Pets should be wearing identification at all times, even if they don’t normally go outside. It’s also a good time to ensure the contact information linked to your pet’s microchip is current should they become lost. You can download this Identification Card for your wallet, to help others identify what pets you have at home and who to contact in the event of an emergency.
Stock Up on the Essentials
In the event you have to leave your home or shelter your pets in-home, it’s important to have the necessities for both you and your pets. Make sure you have the following stocked up and stored safely in a water-proof container:
- Two weeks supply of food and water for your pet
- Two weeks supply of any medications your pets need
- Litter boxes with litter (if you have cats)
- An extra leash and collar
- Vaccination and medical records
- Photos and descriptions of each of your pets
- Pet first aid kit and pet first aid book
- Stickers you can attach to your pet’s tags with information of your intended destination and outside temporary contact information (should you need to leave home)
For additional pet emergency preparedness tips visit: www.lollypop.org/petpreparedness.
Click here for more information about COVID-19 and its potential impact on the pet community. (Up-to-date as of 3/11/20).
Lollypop Farm is diligent about the health and safety of our staff, volunteers, and guests. We are undertaking the following actions:
- Lollypop Farm is limiting animal intake in order to prioritize emergency situations and help the neediest pets first.
- Lollypop Farm is currently open for business but will be evaluating activities that draw a large number of people at the same time as necessary. Keep an eye on our Facebook page or events page for up-to-date communications about cancellations.
- All areas of Lollypop Farm are regularly sanitized for the prevention of disease. We will continue to maintain this standard and increase cleaning protocols for public spaces as needed.
- Lollypop Farm has suspended business travel for employees to help minimize risk for contamination to our area.
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Due to the concerns in our community, Lollypop Farm will not be accepting used items at this time. (3/12/20) You can still help provide for the pets in our care by visiting our Amazon Wish List.
