NORFOLK, VA – Take time now to make a plan for your pet in case you get sick, Norfolk Animal Care Center requests of Hampton Roads residents.
Here are steps to ensure that your beloved companion animal will be cared for while you recover.
Find a temporary caregiver in case you are hospitalized.
The best place for your pet is in its home, but if you become too ill to care for your pet, make sure there is a friend or family member who can take your pet in their home. It would be best if the pet knows that person and likes that person. However, most any home is better than the stressful environment of a shelter. You can also contact pet-sitters and boarding facilities. Many boarding facilities have availability because the pandemic has caused people to cancel travel plans.
Put together an emergency supply kit. This should include:
- Name and contact information for the person who can care for your pets
- Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to is no longer able to help
- Food, treats, a leash, toys and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet for at least two weeks
- A crate or carrier to transport your pet
- Vaccination records
- Collar with ID tags (don’t forget to make sure their microchip information is up to date)
- Medications and prescriptions, along with instructions
- Daily care instructions
- Your veterinarian’s contact information
According to the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, there is currently no evidence that people can get COVID-19 from pets. The best place for your pet is in the home they know and love. If you aren’t feeling well but are still able to provide care for your pet, please keep them at home where they feel most comfortable.
To help ensure that the Norfolk Animal Care Center has the critical supplies needed for fostering, overflow vet care, and community support like emergency boarding for owned pets please consider making a donation to the Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center, or purchase an item from the Amazon Wish List, which can be delivered directly to the shelter.
For information about local impacts of coronavirus and guidance for keeping yourself and others healthy, please check the city’s Coronavirus Information Center at https://coronavirus-response-orf.hub.arcgis.com/