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Coronavirus Update

By March 26, 2020 Uncategorized

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY! To ensure the health and safety of our clients & staff, our door is currently LOCKED but we will REMAIN OPEN to provide health care to your pets!

To receive assistance please call 905-822-1644 upon arrival and we will triage patients over the phone and one of our staff members will come out to assist you with minimal contact.

We also ask for any food and medication orders that all clients give us 1 WEEK notice to order any food items or medications. Our suppliers are experiencing an understandably massive demand and we currently can not guarantee quantities that are usually freely on hand. We apologize for any inconvenience, as we take steps to assure our safety and yours, please call us for any questions and concerns or for any other information on our new protocols. Thank you!

 

By Dr. Katy Nelson, DVM   View the full article here.

As communities around the world respond to the new coronavirus (COVID-19), you should have the most up-to-date information on how it impacts you and your pets.

Here are the answers to pet parents’ most-asked questions.  

Q: Can you get the new coronavirus from your pet?
A: No; there is currently no evidence for this.

One of the most common questions we’re hearing from many pet parents is “can I catch the virus from my pet or vice versa?”  

Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have advised that there is no evidence at this time that companion animals can spread the virus, nor have they received any reports of pets or other animals becoming ill from COVID-19.  

As we learn more, we will share that information with you. 

There is no reason whatsoever to take measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare or erode the bond you have with your four-legged loved ones.  

Q: What if I get COVID-19 and have to be quarantined?
A: Stock up on essential supplies for you and your pet to last 2-4 weeks.

While pets do not appear to be at risk of this disease, you should create a plan of action for yourself and your pets in case of an emergency situation. COVID-19 is a great reminder to create that plan now if you haven’t already developed one. 

If you need to quarantine, make sure you have a supply of the following items that lasts 2-4 weeks:

Food and water
Prescription and preventive medications (don’t forget flea and tick, heartworm)
Emergency and hygiene supplies 

Q: How do I care for my pets if I get sick?
A: Designate someone to care for them, wash your hands before and after contact, and don’t kiss or hug your pet.

Develop a strategy in case you may not be able to care for your pets. Contact a neighbor, your veterinarian and/or a local boarding facility to secure temporary housing in your time of need. 

If you are ill with COVID-19, or other contagious illnesses, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that you “have another member of your household take care of walking, feeding, and playing with your pet. If you have a service animal, or you must care for your pet, then wear a facemask; don’t share food, kiss, or hug them; and wash your hands before and after any contact with your pet or service animal.”  

Q: What if my pet needs to go to the vet while I’m sick?
A: If it’s an emergency, ask a public health official about transport, and alert your veterinarian.

If your pet requires routine care while you are sick (annual exams, vaccinations, elective surgeries or routine monitoring), ask your veterinarian to reschedule to a later date when you are healthy. 

If your pet requires immediate or emergency care, contact your local public health official to determine the best course of action to transport your pet to the veterinarian. Alert your veterinarian that you have been ill so they can take effective measures to protect themselves from the possibility of exposure.  

Q: I think my pet is ill—what do I do?
A: See your veterinarian.

If your pet shows signs of illness, and they have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, see your veterinarian immediately for a full workup.  

According to the AVMA, “currently there is no clinical testing available as of today (3/12/2020) in the United States, but tests and testing capacity are being developed. It is possible that authorization may need to be obtained from a public health or state veterinarian prior to submission of samples. More information on test availability and requirements for submission is expected to be available shortly.”

This is a rapidly developing situation, and we encourage you to follow the CDC and WHO’s websites for further information. Take all of the necessary precautions to stay safe, and have a plan ready for you and your pet.

 

33 Ways to Keep Your Dog Busy Indoors

Looking for some easy ways to keep your dog busy and entertained?

We’ve come up with a big list of fun indoor activities for dogs. So if you’re looking for some indoor games to play with your dog you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a list of 33 ways to keep your dog busy indoors.

1. Play a Game of Find The Treats

2. Play the the Shell Game

3. Teach Your Dog to Clean Up His Toys

4. Use a Stuffed Kong to Keep Your Dog Entertained

5. Play a Game of Tug of War

6. Teach Your Dog to Help With Chores

7. Play Interactive Games

8. Make Your Dog Work for His Food

9. Teach Your Dog The Names of Their Toys

10. Teach Your Dog to “Go Find” Their Toys

11. Teach Your Dog a New Trick

12. Work on Some Clicker Training

13. Play The Which Hand Game

14. Play a Game of Hide & Seek

15. Get Some Puzzle Toys For Your Dog

16. Master the Basics of Obedience Training

17. Play a Game of Fetch

18. Master The Art of Doggie Massage

19. Try Some Free Shaping Games

20. Give Your Dog Regular Grooming Sessions

21. Play a Game of Tag

22. Create Your Own Indoor Doggie Obstacle Course

23. Teach Your Dog to Chase Bubbles

24. Buy a New Dog Toy, Make One, or Rotate Them

25. Make a Doggie Play Date

26. Brush up on Some Old Tricks

27. Teach Your Dog the “Go To” Command

28. Teach Your Dog to Grab His Leash

29. Teach Your Dog to Turn On/Off Lights

30. Work on Impulse Control For Better Manners

31. Make Some Simple Dog Treats

32. Teach Them To Say Please by Sitting

33. Snuggle Up & Relax on the Couch

View the full article.

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