A Dad and His Dog: Canine Critters and Corona

Dog Safety and Human Sanity Tips for the Lockdown by Zach Manko

I hope everyone is enjoying their isolation during this coronavirus pandemic. I know that having Sorsha by my side is making social distancing a lot easier. However, as with so many things surrounding this virus, there is a large degree of uncertainty and confusion when it comes to our animals, which only adds to the stress, strain, and anxiety. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help shed some light on these disconcerting conditions.

One topic that needs clarification is whether we should modify how we interact with our pets during this pandemic. Fear not - a Dad and his Dog are here to help clear things up.

Your Pet is Not in Danger

Up first is some of the most important information. According to the World Health Organization, pets cannot be infected with the COVID-19 virus. Additionally, the American Veterinary Medical Association states that the virus cannot be transmitted from people to pets and then to other animals, including other people.

Even with these guidelines, it is important to be cautious and practice safe hygiene. Wash your hands before and after petting your dog, and make sure their bowls, toys, and other gear are clean (be careful before using any disinfectant or sanitizer, as many of these can be harmful to pets). If you are ill or think you may be ill, have another member of your household take over the pet responsibilities.

Pet Supplies During the Pandemic

While stocking up for your household, don’t overlook pet food and supplies. If you can’t make it out during the lockdown, check out your local pet store many are offering curbside service or delivery to your door. During this pandemic it is important to support small businesses. Of course, there are the large online pet retailers too like Amazon and Chewy - you may also want to check these sites to get pet medications filled.

This period of pandemic might even be the perfect time to get into some home improvement projects for and with your pet. Put up that run you’ve been ignoring, or fix up Fido’s dog house. There are plenty of pet-related things you can get your paws into.

Overcoming Boredom

Pets are great for beating cabin fever. Even if you can’t go outside to the dog park, there are plenty of things you and your canine companion can do to beat the lockdown blues.

Check out our blog on winter health and exercise tips for more information!

A Lesson to Learn

There’s a lot we can learn from our trusty canine companions during these trying times. Dogs embody qualities we all should endeavor to display, qualities which can help us stay sane. Ironically, these qualities can also make us feel a little more human.

Dogs are loyal and steadfast. They can sense tension or sadness and know how to cheer us up. When determined, dogs find a way to get things done, never giving up and always striving to find a different way, if necessary. Also - and perhaps most importantly - dogs are patient. Anyone who’s ever left a dog at their house in the morning to come home and find them in the same spot, happily waiting for them, knows what I’m talking about.

It’s this constancy and perseverance the world needs most right now.

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