The coronavirus outbreak has caused huge upheaval, and there is so much to think about during this worrying time. Many people
are either working from home or not able to work at all. Some parents are juggling being both parent and teacher now schools
are closed. And on top of that, we’re all worried about and/or trying to help our elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends
or neighbours.
However, we must not forget about our two or four legged family members. Our furry and feathered friends are a huge part
of our lives and the recent changes brought about by the coronavirus lockdown may be having a negative effect on them too.
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the latest pet-related news and updates, and some top tips to help you care
for your pets during the coronavirus outbreak.
What does the coronavirus lockdown mean for pet shops and vets?
- Pet shops and vets have been classed as ‘essential’ by the Government. They can continue to remain open during the lockdown.
However, some stores may be offering reduced opening hours or have introduced new shopping rules to help keep you
safe. Check your local shop’s social media pages or website for updates prior to shopping.
- To reduce the risk and the spread of the virus, try to order your pet food and supplies online. If you are elderly, vulnerable
or self-isolating, ask a neighbour or friend to pick it up and drop the items on your doorstep. If you have neighbours,
friends or family in this category, offer to pick up any items they need.
- Pet food is not in short supply, so there is no need to start stockpiling. Pet manufacturers and their logistics
partners are also still allowed to operate under the new government guidelines, so panic buying is not necessary.
However, if you are unable to get your pet food delivered perhaps try to buy one extra bag to reduce the frequency
you will need to leave the house.
- Veterinary practices are now only providing emergency care, but many are continuing to post repeat prescriptions out
to clients. Simply call your veterinary practice and arrange this over the phone.
- As we all know, we are avoiding all non-essential travel. However, if your pet becomes ill this would be classed as essential.
Be sure to call your vet first as they may be able to advise or triage over the phone.
- Although we are all doing everything we can to avoid catching coronavirus, making a plan for your pet in case you do
is a good idea. Speak to a family member or friend who may be able to take your pet to the vets or out for exercise
if you have to self-isolate.
- Recent reports suggest that cats may be able to catch coronavirus from each other. While there is no evidence we can
catch coronavirus from our pets, there is a possibility that both cats and dogs could carry the virus on their fur.
To help reduce the spread of coronavirus in this way, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is
recommending that cat owners in self-isolating and infected households keep their cats indoors. If you’re a dog owner,
we recommend keeping your dog on a lead during a walk. This minimises the chance of them getting lost during this
stressful time. It also reduces the chance of them socialising or coming into contact with dogs and people from other
households.
- For all owners, we recommend following good hygiene practices and washing your hands after stroking your pet or handling
your pet’s belongings.
Top tips to help you care for your pets during the coronavirus outbreak
This is an unsettling time, and we’re all understandably anxious. Our pets often pick up on our stress and anxiety too, but
there are steps you can take.
- Us being at home is not only a change to our routine, but also to our pets. Cats in particular are quite sensitive to
changes in the environment, so don’t be surprised or upset if your cat chooses to hide away. Just as you need to
get used to working in your spare room or your children to home-schooling, your pet needs to get used to more people
being at home.
- To help give your pet some ‘downtime’, you could consider creating a pet den in a room where your pet spends a lot of
time. If your pet already has a favourite place or ‘safe zone’, try to keep this area quiet, and allow them to spend
time there undisturbed, and to come and go as they please. Pet dens are commonly used during the fireworks season,
and you can find further details about building a pet den in our firework blog.
- Even though you’re undoubtedly anxious, try to act natural. Just as children follow their parents’ example, our pets
take cues from us too. Once you and your family have established a new routine, try to act as naturally and normally
as possible. Try to incorporate some ‘normal’ activities into it as well. Dog owners can continue to take their dogs
out for walks during the ‘one period of exercise a day’.
If you use calming products, such as
Beaphar CatComfort® or
Beaphar CaniComfort®
, for your pet during fireworks, travelling or other stressful situations, you may find them useful now. Both product
ranges contain pheromones that are associated with happiness and reassurance. When pets feel more at ease, they are more
likely to settle quickly into a new routine, which may help your pet adjust to the changes in the home.
This blog was last amended 9th April 2020. All information correct at time of publishing. For the most up-to-date government
guidance on coronavirus, please visit the official government website:
gov.uk/coronavirus