Covid-19 Impact on Veterinary Care
Notice From Dr. Mehi
Among veterinarians, housecall veterinarians are at the highest
risk of person-to-person transmission of the virus. There is also some
evidence that cats and dogs can be a source of transmission if a pet
owner has been infected with Covid-19.
Therefore, the following protocols will be
in effect for housecalls:
Before I come to your house you must disclose if anyone in the
household has tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 14 days.
I will be wearing a mask, coveralls or labcoat, and gloves, as will
my assistant Lindsay.
Any examinations or procedures should take place either in the
largest room possible, or in a garage, or outdoors (weather permitting).
I need a clear area about 3 foot x 4 foot items so I can lay
down a plastic sheet to protect my bags. This can be a countertop or a
couch etc.
Only 1 family member may be present in the immediate vicinity
during an examination.
Children and elderly family members or those with underlying health
problems should stay in another area of the house. An exception will be
made for in-home euthanasia: more family members may be present so long
as masks are worn and we are in the largest area possible.
If someone in the household is required to restrain a pet for a
procedure, that person must be wearing a mask, as we cannot maintain 2
metres of physical distancing.
If we need to examine a pet in a smaller room, e.g. a bathroom, then
a mask must be worn by the family member if restraining
the pet.
I am looking forward to seeing all of you and your pets. Stay well!
For after hours emergencies
Please call the 404 Veterinary Emergency Hospital at 905-953-1933. They
are open 24/7.
Winter Hazards to our pets
Tips to help keep your pets safe and in the cold weather
Keep your pets warm. If it’s too cold for you to say
outside, it’s too cold for your pet.
Dress for the weather. Booties and jackets or
sweaters help keep your pets warm when you head outdoors. Booties protect paws from the cold
and from salt and ice melt which can burn and irritate, and can be fatal if
ingested. Wipe your pet’s paws and underside after being outside.
Avoid winter puddles. They may contain ethylene glycol found in antifreeze which
can be fatal if ingested.
Stay away from bodies of water. With melting ice and
rising water levels, lakes and streams can be extremely dangerous for you and
your pet.
Never leave your pet alone in a cold car. Like your
frig, cars hold in the cold, enough to cause your pet to freeze to death.
Bang on the hood of your car before starting the
engine. Cats are known to seek warmth under the hood and can be seriously
injured or killed by the fan belt.
Don’t let your dog off leash, especially during a
snowstorm. They can easily lose their scent and get lost.
 Give your pet a warm place to sleep. Ensure your pet
has a thick cozy bed or blanket away from any drafts and off the cold floor.
Prepare an emergency
pet survival kit in case winter storms keep you in the
house for extended periods.
|
