With the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus on the rise worldwide, it is important for Pittsburgh residents to include their pets in preparedness plans.

Humane Animal Rescue joins the Humane Society of the United States and The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement in suggesting community members create a preparedness plan that includes their pets in the event Pittsburgh is impacted by the COVID-19 virus. In addition to preparations typically recommended for any natural disaster threat, individuals with pets should also identify family members or friends to care for pets if someone in the household comes ill and is hospitalized.

Make a preparedness plan for your pets:

• Identify a trusted family member, friend or pet sitter to care for your pets if someone in your household becomes ill or is hospitalized.
• Research potential boarding facilities to utilize in the event boarding your pet becomes necessary.
• Have crates, food and extra supplies for your pet on hand in case moving them becomes necessary or if the virus spreads in the community and it becomes necessary to reduce social exposure.
• All animal vaccines should be up to date in the event boarding becomes necessary.
• Ensure all medications are documented with dosages and administering instructions. Including the prescription from the prescribing veterinarian is also helpful.
• Pets should have identification including a collar with current identification tags and a registered microchip.

Humane Animal Rescue recommends staying diligent in preparations, but not overreacting to COVID-19 concerns. By creating a preparedness plan ahead of time for the unlikely event it becomes necessary to put into motion, community members can do their part to ensure animal service resources do not become overwhelmed and their pets are spared unnecessary stress.

Head Clinic Veterinarian at Humane Animal Rescue, Dr. Destiny Coleman advises – “As things are getting more serious with the COVID-19 outbreak, we want to provide our clients and community with resources to be prepared should our community become affected. At this time, there is no concern for pets transmitting the virus. However, if an owner becomes ill with the virus and needs to seek care, we want you to be prepared for your pets as well. If you have any questions regarding COVID-19 in your pet, please contact your veterinarian.”

Make an appointment for your pet at Humane Animal Rescue’s Veterinary Medical Center today.

The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement answers more questions about your pet & COVID-19 in this video, watch now.