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COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak of Novel (New) Coronavirus (also known as Covid-19) was declared a public health emergency of international concern by the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization (WHO) on January 30, 2020. Since then, we have taken steps to help protect the health of our clients and co-workers. As of March 11, 2020, the WHO declared the Covid-19 outbreak a “global pandemic.”
What You Need To Know Regarding Your Pets
At this time, we know that COVID-19 does not affect dogs. Although they may build immunity to it if exposed and thereby test positive, they do not develop any clinical illness and are unable to carry it or pass it to humans. Cats on the other hand have been shown to be able to develop illness and pass the virus to other cats. Any pet owners who have Covid-19 infection should isolate from their pets as they would with other people in their houshold.
Dogs may have been vaccinated against coronavirus in the past but this strain is a mild diarrhea strain and is not related to the COVID-19 virus.
It is uncertain, but it is suspected that our pets could act as a surface to transmit the virus from person to person as could a door handle or countertop.
What We Are Doing
The door to the clinic will be locked at all times. One pet parent is allowed inside during appointments. We ask that you call the office when you arrive for appointments. We ask that all clients who enter the building wear a face mask.
If you are unable to wear a mask or are feeling unwell, we can still offer curbside appointments.
Retail and prescription pick up will remain curbside at this time.
Exam rooms are sanitized between each appointment.
Take the Ontario Government’s self-assessment before visiting our office (click the button below):
Resources
Ontario Veterinary Medical Association info sheet on COVID-19
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association info sheet on COVID-19