October 1, 2020
Are You Prepared?
You may not track these kinds of things the way I do, but today is the first day of National Animal Safety and Protection Month. With COVID cases back on the rise, there’s never been a better time to talk about keeping your family safe, including the animals in your family.
Of course, it is important to have an emergency plan for your family that includes pets. The Ottawa Humane Society has assembled some tips on creating one.
Pets are not a significant factor in transmission, but nonetheless they are not immune to the social crisis caused by COVID-19.
You can ensure safety for both you and your pet by being vigilant in social distancing while taking your dog for a walk, visiting the pet store or going to the groomer. If you require sudden quarantine, consider having a 14-day supply of food and any medication your pet requires on hand, or at least know who you will call upon to get supplies.
Most importantly, consider who will care for your pet if you should become ill.
Frankly, I don’t spend much time worrying about pets becoming infected with the virus or transmitting it, but I do worry about what happens to them if their families aren’t prepared for an emergency — COVID-related or not.
Bruce Roney
President & CEO