With cases of COVID-19 still being recorded daily, it is necessary to put a contingency plan in place should you test positive.
And for those pet parents, there are several ways you can prepare for the possibility of requiring hospitalisation or quarantine /isolate in a facility away from your home due to COVID-19.
The human-animal bond people share with their companion animals is very important and can provide much-needed support, comfort and companionship to people in these difficult times. So, if possible, people and their companion animals should stay together for the benefit of both.
We will share some essential advice to help you prepare for if you require hospitalisation or need to be in quarantine:
• Your animals will need to be cared for while you are in the hospital/quarantine facility. You will need to ensure there are adequate supplies for your pet – including food and any medications. You should have a minimum of one month of supply of medication and food available.
• Ensure that you have appropriate carriers/crates available for all your animals if they need to be transported.
• If you cannot get supplies personally, try to order products online or ask friends, family or neighbours to help but avoid direct contact.
• All medications and instructions should be documented (include dosages and how and how often to give the medication and have a script for the medication).
• Ensure that your pet is up to date with their vaccinations if they must go to someone else’s home or a boarding facility.
• Make sure that you have a contact list for whoever is looking after your pet. This should include the contact details for your pet’s veterinarian (and insurance company if relevant) and anyone else who might be necessary for your pet’s care.
