Page 21 - Creature Companion, September 2020

A PET HEALTH GUIDE

MAINTAINING PET HEALTH DURING THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK

TOGETHER, WE ARE THE HEALTH GUARDIANS IMPORTANT TO KNOW
OF OUR PETS

We all want to provide the very best health for ourselves, Human Coronaviruses belong to a family of viruses called
our families, and our pets. In these extraordinary Coronaviridae. Coronaviruses tend to be species specific.
circumstances, it is important to keep good health
practices top of mind. This means it’s ok to continue to love your pets as always.
There is no evidence showing that pets can be a source
In an effort to help you, here is practical information to of infection to other animals or humans. There is also no
foster the health and well-being of your cats and dogs,
evidence that humans can infect their pets*.
now and always.

ACTIONS TO TAKE

i Keep clean water available for i As you and your family spend more i Always practice good
your pets at all times. time at home, it is important that hygiene and proper hand
each pet receives the exercise it washing when handling
needs. Find new ways to play inside pets.
i Ensure that each pet receives – feeding puzzles and indoor toys
the nutrition that its health can help stimulate your pet’s mind i Contact your veterinarian if
needs (this is especially so and exercise its body. you have any concerns for
for pets that have a special the health of your pets.
veterinary diet). Please ensure i Make sure your dog is sufficiently
you have sufficient quantity walked outside, following
on hand and contact your government’s guidelines. When i If you need to be separated
pet nutrition supplier with walking your dog, practice ‘social from your pet for a period
any questions about product distancing’ with other people and of time, make plans for its
availability. animals. ongoing safety and care.

HEALTHY AND HAPPY TOGETHER

Scientific evidence demonstrates that pets can provide Studies have also shown that animals can act as ‘stress
tangible health benefits - physical and emotional – buffers’. They often ease the distress associated with
to their owners. Pets can help us cope during these anxiety-provoking experiences, and help decrease our
times.** perception of physical and emotional pain.**

* Source: World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
** Source: Waltham Human Animal Interaction Playbook