An Important Update on COVID-19

March 16, 2020
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We are very aware that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is creating challenges for all of us, personally and professionally. First and most importantly, we hope that your family and your pet(s) are remaining safe and healthy. We want to keep you updated with our recommendations as well as the steps we are taking in order to continue offering the care your pets need while providing you, and our associates a safe environment.

At Oronoque, we keep our hospital clean and disinfected, and we have increased the frequency of these cleanings in accordance with CDC recommendations to help ensure the safety of both our clients and associates. Similarly, handwashing hygiene is incredibly important in a hospital, a step we continue to emphasize to staff and clients. We always provide options for hand cleaning for clients and staff members, and we work closely with our teams to make sure that anyone who is not feeling well understands that we support them staying home.

What do I do if I have been exposed to the coronavirus while my pet needs care?:
In order to help us continue to serve pets in need, we ask that our clients who have recently traveled to a high-risk country, had any exposure to symptomatic or confirmed positive cases, or confirmed positive themselves not bring their pets in the hospital unless they are having a medical emergency.

If your pet is due for routine care, (annual exams, vaccines, dental cleanings, nail trims, or any other non-urgent appointments), please call us to discuss rescheduling to a later time. If it is determined that your appointment cannot be rescheduled for medical reasons, and your appointment is necessary, we ask that you have a healthy family member or friend bring your pet to the visit.

I have not been exposed and my pet is scheduled for a visit or is sick.
If your pet is sick or scheduled for routine care, we are open and fully operational. We recommend you follow these simple steps:

• While in the waiting area, maintain distance between you and other clients and pets
• After checking in at the reception, you are welcome to wait in your car. We will optionally text you when we are ready to see your pet.
• Limit the number of people who accompany each pet to the hospital
• If you need to pick up food or medications for your pet, please call and we can arrange shipping of any food or prescriptions directly to your home (Home Delivery).
• Use a hand sanitizer or the client restrooms to wash your hands.

At Oronoque, we have several ways to help care for your pets without a trip to the hospital at this time:

Text Messaging/Email: You can send and receive texts or emails with our staff. Texting is only available during operating hours and response times vary. Emails may be directed to: oronoqueanimalhospital@gmail.com

Home Delivery: Pet food and medications may be ordered directly through our online pharmacy.

We know many of our clients consider their pets members of the family and, as such, are concerned about the health of ALL family members. When it comes to the health of your pet, your veterinarian is your best resource! Here is what you should know about COVID-19 and pets:

What is the Coronavirus impact on pet health?

Can dogs or cats get COVID-19?
Based on what we know currently there is limited evidence to support risk of COVID-19 to your pet and no evidence that you are at risk from your pet.

What if my pets not feeling well or is showing signs of flu-like illness?
If your pet shows any signs of illness, such as coughing, sneezing or lethargy, call us immediately, and keep them indoors to prevent further spread. Signs of illness in dogs and cats are usually associated with various common viral and bacterial infections (kennel cough, canine flu, etc.) that are neither coronaviruses nor transmissible to people.

Should my pet wear a mask?
No. There’s no scientific evidence that face masks protect pets from infectious diseases or air pollutants, and masks have the potential to be unnecessarily scary or uncomfortable for pets.

Should I get my pet tested for COVID-19?
At this time, testing pets for COVID-19 virus is unwarranted, as there is currently no indication that apparently healthy and unexposed pets should be tested for the virus.

Where can I get more information on COVID-19?
You can get the latest information from reputable sources such as:
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): About Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

World Small Animal Veterinary Association: Coronavirus & Companion Animals Advice: https://wsava.org/…/the-new-coronavirus-and-companion-anim…/

World Organization for Animal Health (OIE): Questions and Answers on the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): https://www.oie.int/…/questions-and-answers-on-2019novel-c…/

Please be rest assured that we are monitoring this situation closely and we will continue to consult and seek input from internal and external experts to provide the best guidance and advice for you, our valued clients. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns.