Creating Your Pet Plan
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue is urging the community to have an emergency preparedness plan in place for your pets and to complete a pet information sheet in the wake of COVID-19.
Identify Multiple Caregivers
If you are hospitalized, who will take care of your pet? The best place for your pet, even if you are sick, is with you in your home. However, you may become too ill to care for your pet. Contact neighbors, family, friends, pet-sitters and boarding facilities you trust to help take care of your pet.
Pet Information Sheet (download fillable PDF)
Talk Through Your Plan
Once you come up with multiple plans to care for your pet, it’s important to speak with caregivers so they’re prepared should they be called to action. The most ideal situation for you and your pets is for them to remain in the temporary care of a trusted caregiver and out of an animal shelter.
Prepare Pet Supplies
It may not seem necessary today, but having proper supplies and information in place in advance is critical if you find yourself in an emergency situation. Your kit should include:
- Name and contact information for the person who can care for your pets
- Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to is no longer able to help
- Food, treats, a leash, toys and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet for at least two weeks
- A crate or carrier to transport your pet
- Vaccination records
- Collar with ID tags (don’t forget to make sure their microchip information is up to date)
- Medications and prescriptions, along with instructions
- Daily care instructions
- Veterinarian's contact information
Know the Facts
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there is no evidence that people can get COVID-19 from pets. The best place for your animal is inside the home they know and love. If you aren’t feeling well but are still able to provide care for your pet, please keep them at home with you where they’re most comfortable.
You’ll feel better knowing they’re in good hands no matter what challenges may arise. In addition, keeping area animal shelters free of long-term care animals allows them to be better prepared for the onset of kitten season, stray pets, and animal care cases that require immediate attention.
For more info, please visit www.cdc.gov.
How can I protect my pets if I'm sick?
If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would around other people.
- When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.
- Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.
- If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
More information is available HERE from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Can I get COVID-19 from my pets?
According to the CDC, at this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 to people or that they might be a source of infection in the United States. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and we encourage you to regularly consult the websites for the CDC and DC Health. As always, contact your veterinarian and your physician if you suspect that you or your pet has been exposed to the virus. You can find an current statement by American Pets Alive HERE on why the two pet cats who tested postive shouldn't worry you.
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue is taking all the necessary steps to protect the health and well-being of the animals in our care, our staff/volunteers, and the community we serve.