Comfort in crisis: Leading animal organisations unite to support pets and owners through Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The coalition is concerned about conflicting and poor information which is leaving owners confused and anxious and animals potentially at risk.

The group has produced a series of colourful graphics giving tips and advice on how to look after your pets while you protect yourself, how to care for pets while social distancing or in self-isolation and how to help others look after their animals. The group are urging pet-owners to share the easy to understand graphics across their networks. These will be also posted on the organisations’ websites - so owners get good, clear advice.

BVA president, Daniella Dos Santos said:

“With rapidly changing and sometimes, incorrect information out there around Covid-19 and pets, it is brilliant to see animal welfare experts joining together to offer sound and reliable advice for owners on caring for their animals and protecting themselves. Amid the current emergency climate of self-isolation and social distancing, we hope that these resources will enable those concerned about caring for their own, a family or friend’s pets, to feel confident that they are doing what is best for their animals whilst protecting their own health and wellbeing.”

Chris Laurence, chair of the Canine and Feline Sector Group, said:

“We are concerned that rapidly changing and conflicting information was leaving pet owners confused and worried. Those of us who work with animals are concerned that this information could leave animals at risk as pets could end up abandoned by anxious families unsure if they pose a risk or how they can care for them in isolation.

“We have come together to reassure people that there is no evidence that pets can get sick from coronavirus so not to panic or worry. We have also written some clear and simple tips about how to continue to care for them through this crisis.

“Like many others, the animal welfare sector is facing huge strain, with reduced staffing, loss of volunteers and pressure on resources. We need to reassure owners with good advice so they can continue to look after their pets and this will help prevent rescue centres being overwhelmed at this challenging time.”

“Pets are a big part of our families and it is important to make sure they stay happy and healthy during these difficult times. Isolation for us can mean some big changes for our pets and they won’t understand why. We hope this advice will help owners help their pets, while looking after themselves too. ”