Did you know that pet purchases and adoptions have surged during the COVID-19 pandemic? Many individuals and families have considered having furry members at home, whether dogs or cats.
In fact, National Geographic claims that pets help people cope with the pandemic. A survey revealed that animals have positive effects on their owners. They help their families become emotionally stable and psychologically well. And these families couldn’t imagine going through the COVID-crisis without their pets.
On the other side of the spectrum, you have to take care of your pets as well. As a responsible pet owner, learn what it takes to keep your dogs or cats in top shape and condition amid the crisis. Make sure to promote their overall health and well-being during this pandemic.
Here’s how to take care of the furry members of your family:
1. Regulate pet interaction
Pre-pandemic, it’s easy for you to interact with your pets whenever you want to. However, be wary of your pet interaction during this pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that home pets are less likely to spread the novel coronavirus to humans. However, humans can transmit the virus to their pets. To be on the safe side, avoid the following:
- Petting
- Snuggling
- Being licked or kissed
- Sharing food
In addition, it’s best to set health and safety protocols for your pets. As such, consider the following measures:
- Wash your hands before and after pet interaction
- Walk your pets outdoor with leashes only
- Restrict your pets from interacting with other pets
2. Have no pet interaction when sick
When you are sick, you will most likely limit your interaction with people. The same thing applies to your pet interaction. If you’re unwell, it’s better not to play or attend to your dogs or cats.
But if it’s confirmed you have COVID-19, make sure to isolate yourself in your room. Have no interactions with other people, even your pets. The last thing you want to happen is to get your family members, including furry members, infected. Besides, your goal is to recover as soon as possible.
3. Ensure your pet’s proper nourishment
Amid the COVID-19 crisis, people need to stay as healthy as possible. The key here is to have proper nutrition. Even if they get infected with COVID-19, their bodies can fight off the virus. They can get well as soon as possible.
The same thing applies to your pets as well. You want to make sure that they are eating properly and staying hydrated. Be sure to stock on pet supplies, from pet foods to pet supplements down to pet medications. That way, your furry members of the family remain healthy and strong.
4. Take your pets to the vet right away
When your pets show some symptoms of COVID-19, the best course of action is to take them to the vet right away. They need to get checked immediately and get treated whenever necessary.
As much as possible, never take their sickness for granted and delay getting checkups. The last thing you want to happen is for one of your furry members to perish amid the crisis.
5. Have pet grooming and proper hygiene
You must not neglect two things: pet grooming and proper hygiene. It’s easy to dismiss your pet grooming due to pandemic restrictions. Fret not, however, as you can hire pet grooming services. The pet professionals will visit your house and take care of your dogs or cats.
On the other hand, it’s crucial to maintain your pets’ proper hygiene. Here are a few recommendations:
- Get your pets regularly washed or cleaned.
- Clean them right after walking them outdoor.
- Constantly clean their collars, leashes, and other belongings.
- Keep their shelter always clean and disinfected.
6. Don’t forget to have a playtime
It’s vital not to sacrifice your playtime with your pets amid the pandemic. As long as you are healthy, make sure that you have time for your dogs or cats. While doing so is beneficial to your pets, know that it’s also good for your physical and mental health.
In addition, it’s a good idea to allow your dog to undergo dog behavior modification training. As the pandemic restrictions remain, you want to enroll your pets in pet training or classes. That way, your furry members of the family can still have social interaction and some playtime.
At this point, you now know what it takes to take care of your pets during this pandemic. Be sure to consider the pet care tips recommended above. As a responsible pet owner, you want to foster the health and safety of your dogs or cats. Take good care of them as they will take care of you too. After all, these pets are furry members of your family.