DAY 10

HANDLING YOUR DOG WHEN YOU ARE UNDER COVID-19 QUARANTINE

It’s been over a week that we are all isolating in an effort to flatten the curve. But in spite of all the precautions, what if you or a family member does get infected?

If you have symptoms of corona virus, if you under self- quarantine, isolation, are sick or under medical supervision, here are a few things you should keep in mind.

• You may not be able to completely isolate from your dog, but do try keep any interactions between your dog and you to an absolute minimum. If you do need to interact, ensure you wear a mask and wash your hands thoroughly before and after any contact with your dog.
• Do not kiss your dog, share food, utensils, touch bedding, toys or any dog items.
• It’s also a good idea not to allow your dog to lick your face or to kiss you.
• If possible, ask others in your family who are well to take care of your dog.
• Do have your dog bathed regularly.
• You won’t be allowed to take your dog outside, so do ask someone else to help out at that time to take your dog for a walk. Keep in mind they will also need to follow certain precautions of hygiene and safety.
• Animals in homes where a person is COVID-19 positive should be kept indoors as much as possible and contact with those pets should be avoided.
• In the case where you are the sole caregiver for your dog, do prepare in advance for a situation where you might need to be hospitalized.
• Do appoint a friend or neighbour as temporary caregiver with instructions on who can care for your dog during the time you are away.
• Ensure you have stocked up on enough dog food and any medicines your dog might need daily.
• Pack away an extra blanket for your dog, bowls, toys, treats, a copy of the vaccination certificate and a leash in your kit.
• Write out your dog’s schedule, diet, timings, list your vet’s number in case of an emergency and any helpful advice which can help the caregiver take care of your pet.
• Please at no point should you leave your dog alone at home whilst you are away in hospital. Preparing a contingency plan in advance can help your dog and reduce your stress in case of an emergency.
• I know at this point that none of us want to consider all of this, but its always better to be prepared than to end up in a situation where your dog is locked up in your house, abandoned, or harmed.

Its always best to be prepared.