Due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, we have had a number of clients concerned about their pets wellbeing. We would like to assure all our clients that currently, there is no evidence that cats or dogs can be a source of Coronavirus infection or can transmit the disease.
There is a type of Coronavirus (alpha-corona virus) that does affect cats and dogs but these are not associated with the beta-coronavirus causing the COVID-19 pandemic. The alpha-coronavirus causes mild diarrhoea in dogs and Feline infectious peritonitis in cats.
The reported companion dog in Hong Kong that tested “weak positive” to COVID-19, had no symptoms, was found to only carry low levels of viral components (RNA). This may indicate that the dog had a low level of infection or may have tested weak positive due to environmental contamination.
We recommend the following
- Any person with, COVID-19, cold or flu like symptoms minimise contact with their pet where possible.
- Keep your pets with you in your family unit.
- Plan for the care of your pets in case you become ill or need to go to hospital
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands before and after handling your pet or their food/water bowls.
For further recommendations, please see the fact sheet provided by the Australian Veterinary Association by clicking here
What are we doing to minimise the risk of COVID-19 in our clinic
- Our regular opening hours have changed to Monday to Friday 8am-7.30pm, Saturday 8 am to 4 pm
- SUNDAY opening hours are cancelled until further notice
- Caroline Springs Veterinary Hospital staff has been split into two teams so that we can help to ensure that we stays open if a staff member falls ill from any respiratory virus. The two teams will work alternating days, with large hospital disinfecting to occur at the end and start of each shift. Along with this, the clinic is thoroughly cleaned multiple times throughout the day
- We have NO CONTACT CONSULTING. Clients will need to phone reception on arrival, stay in the car and wait to be called. Pets will then be taken into the clinic for their check up and appointment. Please follow all staff directions on the day of your visit
- Food and medications will be pre-paid over the phone and collected (no contact)
If you have any concerns about your pets wellbeing, please contact us on 8390 2266.
We are continuing to monitor the situation closely and will update any information and advice as needed.
