With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, we wanted to share these three important facts to help you and your pet stay safe and healthy during this challenging time.
#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 have already put the following in place:
- Curbside appointments — Please pull around to the back of our building. Stay in your vehicle and call us at (252) 702-8299 when you arrive so we can check you in. Once you call us, you may be asked to be placed on hold so you can speak with one of our technicians. They will be asking you questions regarding your pet’s health. If we have to bring your pet in for further testing, you will be asked to wait in your vehicle while we escort your pet into the hospital. Any additional treatments or recommendations will be discussed with you over the phone. Upon approval, your pet will be treated in the hospital, and then we will bring them back to you. We will take your payment over the phone.
- Increased sanitation — We have increased our already rigorous sanitation routines and are more frequently wiping down doorknobs, counters, and commonly used items.
We know this is a stressful time, and our team is taking all precautions to keep our community and pets safe. Contact us about our current operating policies before you head out. Thank you for your patience and understanding!