FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2020
CONTACT - Kimberley Cline, communications director, 425.257.8687
Everett Animal Shelter suggests including pets in preparedness plan amid COVID-19 concerns
EVERETT – With the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the rise worldwide, it is important for residents to include their pets in preparedness plans.
The Everett Animal Shelter joins the Humane Society of the United States and The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement in suggesting community members create a preparedness plan that includes their pets. Individuals with pets should identify family members or friends to care for pets if someone in the household becomes ill and is hospitalized.
Make a preparedness plan for your pets:
Identify a trusted family member or friend to care for your pets if someone in your household becomes ill or is hospitalized.
Research potential boarding facilities to utilize in the event boarding your pet becomes necessary.
Have crates, food and extra supplies for your pet on hand in case moving them becomes necessary or if the disease spreads in the community and it becomes necessary to reduce social exposure.
All animal vaccines should be up to date in the event boarding becomes necessary.
Pets should have identification including a collar with current identification tags and a registered microchip. Make sure the microchip registry has your current contact information.
The Everett Animal Shelter recommends staying diligent in preparations, but not overreacting to COVID-19 concerns. Out of an abundance of caution, we are continuing to monitor the situation with our partners.
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association states that there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected with or spread COVID-19. This is also the view of the World Health Organization. As this is a rapidly evolving situation, people with confirmed COVID-19 should avoid contact with other people as well as pets.
For information on ongoing COVID-19 developments and tips to stay safe visit everettwa.gov/COVID19.
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