Pet Haven is taking all the precautionary measures possible to keep our foster animals, volunteers, and community safe during this time. We will continue to monitor the presence of COVID 19 in our community and plan for any possible actions needed based on information from credible sources such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), World Small Animal Veterinary Association – Global Veterinary Community (WSAVA) American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Minnesota Department of  Health. 

 

ABOUT COVID-19: While COVID-19 is contagious for humans and, as of March 3, is understood to spread primarily from person to person, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association states there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected. Here’s the WSAVA advisory.

Here are a few frequently asked questions and what you can do to help prevent the exchange of germs to protect yourself, family, co-workers, volunteers and animals.

SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT PETS OR OTHER ANIMALS AND COVID-19?
The CDC says while this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, this does not mean you can contract the virus from your pets or other animals. There is no evidence that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with COVID 19. Learn more from the CDC on keeping yourself and pets healthy.

CAN HUMANS BECOME INFECTED WITH COVID-19 FROM AN ANIMAL?
According to WHO, the coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in animals. However, possible infection from your pets or other animal sources of COVID-19 has not been confirmed. Learn more about how to protect yourself.

IF I GET SICK FROM COVID-19, CAN MY PET CATCH IT?
WHO states at this time, there is no case of humans transmitting the disease to their pets at this time. If you become ill with COVID-19, please contact the Minnesota Department of Health and if you have pets have an alternate plan for their care. Out of an abundance of caution, it is recommended that those ill with COVID-19 limit contact with their pets until more information is known about the virus. 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 them. Learn more here from the American Veterinary Association

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF GERMS? Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds often with warm water and soap.

• Cover your mouth with a tissue, sleeve, or elbow (not hands) when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds often with warm water and soap.
• Stay home if you’re sick.
• Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, regular exercise and take care of underlying health conditions.

STEPS TO PREPARE FOR AN UNEXPECTED COVID-19 EVENT:

• Learn your employer’s sick leave and work-from-home policies.
•  Establish a plan in the event your children need to stay home from school.
• Make sure you have the kinds of foods, drinks, medications and pet supplies you may need if you stay at home for two weeks
• Know your neighbors, especially those who might need help like seniors or people living alone.
• Arrange ahead of time family members or friends that can help in the event of infection.

UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION ON THESE WEBSITES:
Association of Animal Welfare Advancement
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Minnesota Department of Health
World Health Organization
WSAVA Global Veterinary Community