With the expected peak in COVID-19 cases still ahead of Ohioans, Wood County Humane Society is encouraging pet owners to be ready in the event of an emergency.
Unless you are hospitalized and live alone, keep your pets with you. It’s the best place for them to be, and it will bring comfort in these turbulent times. Even if you have to self-quarantine, the best place for your pets is at home with you. Take precautions—your pet should be social distancing as well. You can take them on walks, but keep six feet of distance from other people and pets.
If you do become too ill to care for your pet, or you need to be hospitalized, designate someone else in your home who can help or ask a neighbor, friend, coworker, or family member to take care of your pet. Speak directly with those people so they are prepared ahead of time.
Finally, we strongly urge you to prepare a pet supply kit that includes the following items:
- The names and contact information for one person and one back-up person who can care for your pet in the event of your illness
- A two-week supply of food, treats, medications (with directions and prescriptions), litter, and any other supplies necessary to care for your pet
- A crate or carrier to transport your pet, leash/harness, blanket, and toys
- Copies of up-to-date vaccination records
- Collars with ID tags (Don’t forget to make sure that your pet’s microchip information is current)
- Daily care instructions
- Contact information for your veterinarian
When you have prepared your pet supply kit, leave all of these materials in one designated location and let your back-up caregivers know where that location is.
Wood County Humane Society recommends staying diligent in preparations, but not overreacting to COVID-19 concerns. By creating a preparedness plan for the unlikely event it becomes necessary to put into motion, as a pet owner, you can do your part to ensure our resources as an emergency service provider do not become overwhelmed and your pets are spared unnecessary stress.
