Now that several places and cities across the world imposed necessary lockdown or “community qaurantine” in an effort to prevent the further spread of the novel coronavirus, it is important to prepare for the next few weeks.
Humans now self-quarantine at their homes and probably stocked up a few supplies to get them through the next days, but for pet parents, there’s one crucial member of the family they should also think about: their pets’ safety.
No one likes to relive the unpreparedness of most people during the Taal volcano eruption earlier this year, leaving thousands of animals abandoned in their homes. Which is why it is important to learn from it and now, include your pets in COVID-19 preparedness plans.
Similar to other disaster plans, you should know boarding options in case someone in your family have the disease, leaving you no choice but to leave your pets for a while.
The Jackson County Animal Shelter and Cascades Humane Society recommend pet owners to identify family or friends, too who can take in animal companions in case the owner needs medical attention or even hospitalization.
Jackson County Animal Shelter also stated other steps:
- Research potential boarding facilities for pets to stay temporarily.
- Updating pets’ vaccines now so boarding facilities are able to take them.
- Securing enough medications for pets, as well as knowing the administering instructions should boarding facilities need to take them.
- Updating identification tags, and making sure animals have registered microchip.
“By creating a preparedness plan ahead of time for the unlikely event it becomes necessary to put into motion, community members can do their best to ensure animal service resources do not become overwhelmed and their pets are spared unnecessary stress,” the statement added.
Cascades Humane Society also recommends pet owners to have a crate, at least two weeks’ worth of pet food and medication
“Wear face mask, don’t kiss or hug them, and wash your hands before and after feeding and handling your pet,” adds the society.
