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Coronavirus animal shelters and our pets

Dog Is My CoPilot hopes to reassure people with pets that, as far as experts know, your dogs and cats are safe and can serve as a source of comfort during a crisis.

Multiple health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control, World Health Organization and the American Veterinary Medical Association have stated that pets and domestic animals are not at risk for contracting COVID-19.

  • The real threat at this point is animal shelters across the country facing an increase of dogs and cats in need of homes because fewer people are visiting shelters right now, and in some cases shelters are having to temporarily close to the public.
  • It’s beneficial to have pets in your house as they can serve as a source of comfort.
  • The companionship of pets has been shown to reduce stress and lower anxiety, helping people to feel calmer and more secure when the news from the outside world is distressing.

If you don’t have a pet and are thinking about getting one, now is the perfect time to “try it on” by fostering. Please contact our local shelter to inquire about fostering!

  • Check out this article from the HuffPost: Animal Shelters call for people to foster pets amid Coronavirus Pandemic
  • Animal shelters and rescues are bracing themselves for the possibility of increased intake, fewer adoptions and fewer foster homes, and the possibility of no space.
  • Individuals can reduce the impact on our local shelters by reaching out to foster or donate to support the animals in our community.
  • Shelters and pet adoption facilities nationwide need people to foster pets on a temporary basis.
  • And people can also help by offering support to their neighbors who might need help caring for their pets.
  • Find a shelter or rescue near you: petcofoundation.org/shelter

“The future of pets in shelters is in the hands of each one of us. This is not the time to criticize our animal shelters, now is the time to help. We are all in this together and how we respond will determine their fate. Please foster and adopt with safe distance from others. Shelters are constantly modifying their policies to make it easier and safe.” said Susan Kogut President of the Petco Foundation

Check out Susan’s full story here!

People with pets should be prepared with enough food, water and medications for your pet, in case of lockdown or self-quarantine.

  • Have on hand at least a one-month supply of your pets’ medications, litter, and food.
  • Make sure your pets’ vaccination records are current and you have copies.
  • Consider the care of your pets as you put together your household readiness plan.

Rely on trusted and up-to-date sources for the latest information and recommendations.

  • We have compiled links to leading national animal welfare organizations that are providing the most up to date information on the response of COVID-19 you can learn more here: https://dogcopilot.org/resources-covid-19/

Resources: for our rescue and shelter partners and our community 

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