The shelters – Dallas Animal Services, Fort Worth Animal Care and Control, the Humane Society of North Texas, Irving Animal Services, SPCA of Texas and Tri-City Animal Services – recommend preparing a supply kit for your pet as a backup plan for pet care or boarding if you become hospitalized.
“Your family must have a plan in place to ensure your pets receive proper care if you were to fall ill with COVID-19 or unable to visit the store for an extended period of time,” said Ed Jamison, director of Dallas Animal Services. “The past few weeks have shown us just how quickly this situation can change and it’s important to prepare for any possibility.”
The shelters recommend staying up-to-date on COVID-19 facts from sources like the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization and the American Veterinary Medicine Association.
“If admitted to the hospital, the ideal plan is for your pet to stay at home and receive care from another family member,” said Dr. Tim Morton of Fort Worth Animal Care and Control. “However, it’s important to prepare for all possible scenarios, so we recommend requesting help from a friend or neighbor.”
In addition to considering emergency boarding, shelters recommend updating your pet’s microchip information and preparing an emergency supply kit for your pet, which should include:
- Two weeks’ worth of food and medication.
- Vaccination records and veterinarian’s contact information.
- Collar with ID tags.
- Daily pet care instructions.
- A crate, leash, carrier and toys or treats.
For assistance obtaining pet food or medical care for pets, visit the SPCA of Texas’ Pet Resource Center.
For pet owners in need, pet food is available through Don’t Forget to Feed Me, 5825 E Rosedale St., and the Community Food Bank, 3000 Galvez Ave.
Proper care is important for all members of the family, even the four-legged ones.
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