Together, we are the health guardians of our pets

We all want to provide the very best health for ourselves, our families, and our pets. In these extraordinary circumstances, it is important to keep good health practices top of mind.

In an effort to help you, here is practical information to foster the health and well-being of your cats and dogs, now and always.

Important to know

The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission. According to the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to date, there is no evidence to suggest that companion animals are playing a role in the spread of COVID-19. For the most up to date information on this rapidly evolving situation, please refer to the OIE or WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) websites.

Take precautions if you are sick

If you are sick with COVID-19 (confirmed or suspected) and recovering at home, avoid close contact with your pet if you can. If you can’t have another member of your household caring for your pet, maintain good hygiene practices and wear a face mask if possible.

Keep them hydrated

Keep clean water available for your pets at all times.

Maintain your pets' nutritional needs

Ensure that each pet receives the nutrition that its health needs (this is especially so for pets that have a special veterinary diet). Please ensure you have sufficient quantity on hand and contact your pet nutrition supplier with any questions about product availability.

Keep your pet active

As you and your family spend more time at home, it is important that each pet receives the exercise it needs. Find new ways to play inside – feeding puzzles and indoor toys can help stimulate your pet’s mind and exercise its body.

Walk your dog safely

Make sure your dog is sufficiently walked outside, following government’s guidelines. When walking your dog, practice ‘social distancing’ with other people and animals.

Practice good hygiene with your pets

Always practice good hygiene. For you, this includes proper hand washing when handling pets, and washing their bowls and contact surfaces. For your pets, clean their paws and bodies only with water and mild soap or shampoo suitable for them. Never use harsh cleaners containing bleach or alcohol based products, as this causes harm to them and can be toxic if licked.

Contact your veterinarian as needed

Call your veterinarian if you have any concerns for the health of your pets.

Plan ahead

If you need to be separated from your pet for a period of time, make plans for its ongoing safety and care.

Healthy and happy together

Scientific evidence demonstrates that pets can provide tangible health benefits - physical and emotional - to their owners. Pets can help us cope during these times.*

Studies have also shown that animals can act as 'stress buffers'. They often ease the distress associated with anxiety-provoking experiences, and help decrease our perception of physical and emotional pain.*

*Source: Waltham Human Animal Interaction Playbook

April 14th 2020