In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, pet owners may be concerned about how to care for their pets and stay safe. Here are facts for you to know.

#1: Rely on reputable sources for current COVID-19 information

While you can turn to Facebook for insider information on where to find toilet paper, avoid using social media as your main source about COVID-19. Instead, rely on major animal and human health organizations for the most current, accurate research about this evolving situation. A few reputable sources include:

#2: There is no evidence to indicate pets can become ill with COVID-19

A major veterinary diagnostic laboratory tested thousands of canine and feline samples for COVID-19 when validating a veterinary test, but found no positive results. Additionally, the CDC and WHO have received zero reports of a pet who was ill from COVID-19. Based on the current evidence, health officials have declared there is no indication that pets can become sick from COVID-19. So, your coughing dog is likely not sick with COVID-19, but another disease, such as kennel cough, congestive heart failure, or a collapsing trachea.

#3: We’re taking every precaution to protect you and our team while still keeping your pet healthy

As a vital part of the health care community, we will remain open and continue to provide important medical care for your pet. As this situation continues to unfold, we may make protocol changes to protect everyone involved. Here are a few changes already in effect:

  • Curbside service — We will continue curbside service only for medical/sick visits primarily. Prescription refills may be requested and paid by phone and delivered to your car.
  • Telemedicine — We are now offering the Airvet telemedicine app that can be downloaded from our website, App Store, or Google Play. You can talk to a GACC vet using the My Vet feature for a small nominal fee or talk to the first available network veterinarian. This service is provided 24/7. Please be sure to call our office during normal business hours. We also offer two-way texting via PetDesk during open hours. 
  • Increased sanitation — We have increased our already rigorous sanitation routines, and are more frequently wiping down doorknobs, counters, and commonly used items.

You can read more about our COVID-19 protocols here.

During this ever-evolving pandemic, we are committed to offering alternative ways to communicate with us. Thank you for your patience and understanding, and know we will do our best to keep you up to date with other additions or changes at the GACC. Stay safe!