Dr. Howe's Message on Coronavirus & Pets
Dear Valued Client:
We understand the concern that Coronavirus has brought to the area and we want to make you aware of the steps we are taking to protect our valued patients, clients and staff. Currently, there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected with or spread COVID-19. We recommend you refer to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) for more information.
Coronavirus: What we know as it relates to pets
From the American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) www.avma.org
On Thursday, February 27, a dog in Hong Kong tested "weak positive" for coronavirus (the owner tested positive for coronavirus). The dog has since received a second positive result that has been sent to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), which is working with Hong Kong health officials on this case. The precise meaning of "weak positive" remains unclear and further evaluation is ongoing. Hong Kong authorities have said the dog shows no clinical signs of illness but remains quarantined. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
At this time, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) say there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19. However, as with any disease, it's always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals.
According to the CDC, people who are sick with COVID-19 should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would restrict your contact with other people. When possible, a member of the household other than the individual who is ill should care for any animals in the household. Those infected with COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. Those who must care for a pet, or who will be around animals while sick, should wear an appropriate facemask and wash hands thoroughly before and after interacting with those animals.
Employees and pet owners who have symptoms of respiratory illness (cough, sneezing, shortness of breath, fever) are asked to stay home and not come to the hospital until they are free of fever (100.4 F [37.8 C] or greater) or associated symptoms for at least 24 hours without using fever reducing medication. If you are experiencing these symptoms above, and your pet has a scheduled appointment, please reach out to us to reschedule your appointment. If your pet is having an emergency or needs same day medical care but you are feeling ill, we can accommodate you. To prevent exposure to our team and clients, one of our team members can bring your pet in from the car directly for treatment.
We ask all employees and pet owners to follow the CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of disease: wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and to stay home if they are sick.
The wellness of you, your pets, and our staff is our number one priority. Thank you in advance for your understanding,
Dr. Emily Howe
Owner
Ballard Animal Hospital
206-782-4222