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If you are experiencing any COVID-19 or flu like symptoms or have returned from overseas in the last 14 days we ask that you do not come into the Veterinary Clinic.
If your pet requires treatment please phone the clinic and advise us of your pets symptoms and we will organise how best to treat your pet.
Can animals catch COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
Probably not. There is no strong evidence that animals can spread coronavirus to humans. A person with COVID-19 may sneeze or shed the virus onto the fur of animals which could spread the virus to other people. You may see veterinarians taking more precautions with personal protective equipment when dealing with patients, however this is the same as them being more careful about contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated.
What about that dog in Hong Kong?
In late February a dog was tested and the results showed a "weak positive" for coronavirus. The first set of blood test done on the dog have tested negative. At the moment it is not showing any clinical signs. It is unclear what exactly all this means but it’s believed this may be a case of a human transmitting the disease to a dog (and not the other way round). There is still no evidence of animals posing a risk of spreading COVID-19
What should I do to protect my animal?
At this stage, the best thing you can do is practice good hygiene. The risk of your animal catching COVID-19 is very low and there is no evidence that your pet could give it to you. However, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with animals.
What should I do if my animal gets sick?
As always, talk to your vet and follow their advice. If you can, ring them first, particularly if you are unwell, have been in contact with someone who is unwell or are self-isolating. It may be best to arrange for someone else to take your animal to the vet if it needs to be seen, so that you can remain isolated.
What should I do for my animal if someone in my home gets coronavirus or is in isolation?
If you or someone in your home is in isolation, the same process applies for animals as human members of the household.
If the person in isolation has not had close contact with the animal during the isolation period or the 2 weeks before that, they should try to minimise their contact with it and other household members. If possible, find someone who is well and not in isolation to help care for the animal. If the isolated person has to, they should wash their hands before and afterwards and wear a facemask. (this is recommended by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association).
If you are in self isolation or you are experiencing COVID-19 or flu like symptoms
• Please reschedule your pet’s appointment if it is not urgent
• If you need a repeat medication or prescription diet please ask a family member or friend to collect.
• If your pet urgently requires veterinary care then please have a friend or family member bring them in; we can phone you from the consult
• If none of the above are possible, please stay in your vehicle on arrival at the clinic and phone us from your car. A Kohi Vet team member will then come out to discuss your pet’s health and bring your pet inside if needed.
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