Company offers pet care tips amid covid19

THE covid19 pandemic has not only changed lifestyles and daily routines for humans but also for their pets. As such, Pet Food Institute (Caribbean) has outlined some tips and precautions that can be applied by pet owners.

In a release on Monday, the company said, “While that extra time may appear to be the cat’s meow, it can zap the excitement that comes with a daily routine of mealtime rituals, greetings at the end of a workday and a walk in the park meeting up with other dogs and the folks they bring along.”

It suggested establishing a schedule for the animals: Play, eat, sleep, repeat…or whatever order is preferred.

“You can hide treats around your home, practice new commands, or play fetch. Stimulating your pet’s mental and physical exercise is important.”

It said one should also establish a plan in case an owner has a medical emergency. It suggested writing the pet’s veterinary information and dedicating a trusted family member, friend or pet sitter that can care for the animal during an owner's absence.

That plan could include a sufficient amount of pet food and any medications or supplements the pet is on. The more detailed the plan, the less stress an owner or their pet will experience.

Just like humans, animals also need an adequate amount of essential supplies. Those include food, water, grooming supplies and medication. One should have two weeks’ worth of those products.

And pet owners also have to practice proper hygiene, like everyone else, amid the pandemic.

“Just as you would wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds when returning from the store or throughout the day, make sure to do the same after handling pets.

“The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reminds that ‘At this point in time, there is also no evidence that domestic animals, including pets and livestock, can spread covid19 to people.’

"Enjoy the emotional benefits that pets can bring to our lives during these times of stress, and always have an emergency care plan in place.”