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PET BLOG
Is it Safe For Me to Bring My Dog to Daycare during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Written by the Town House for Dogs and Cats, 2020
Working from home (and more time spent at home) has been a major adjustment for many people this year. Let's not forget about our dogs and cats this past year! We know our pets love their routines, so this past year has been a major shift in our lives. Over this past year, we've learned a lot about COVID-19, as well as how to create a fully safe experience for you, our customer. Our #1 priority. What we created is an organized and clean environment for you and your pet. We have full confidence in providing you with the safety and cleanliness standards you deserve.
With uncertainty swirling around immediate the future, some pet owners may be wondering if it’s safe to send them to daycare, boarding or groomer. Of course, everyone’s situation is different, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision fit for you and your pet.
But, if you’re having trouble getting work done or you feel like your pet is bored at home, here’s why Boarding/Doggie Daycare is a safe, positive place to send your pup during the pandemic.
On June 22, 2020 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an official statement saying its low risk for coronavirus to be shared between animals and humans. See the following excerpt from the CDC:
“At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.” For more info from the CDC regarding Dogs & Cats and COVID-19, go here.
Social distancing is important for safety, and this is something that doggie daycare can offer that dog parks can’t. At dog parks, you can try to social distance, but you might be put in situations where you need to interact with other dog owners, especially off-the-leash. When you drop your dog off at boarding or daycare, they are left in a clean atmosphere where a trained professional will play and watch her all day. There’s less interaction with other humans on your part- just look into the pandemic safety measures put in place at your daycare.
Staying at home is always the safest option, but your dog misses out on vital socialization, exercise and mental stimulation. Doggie daycare-even just a couple of times a week, can help your dog feel happy and relaxed instead of bored and restless.
The CDC recommends that if you do bring your dog to daycare, follow safety precautions by wearing a mask, social distancing and washing hands often. Try not to bring many items, such as toys or bedding, and if you do, please make sure to sanitize them with an EPA approved cleaning solution when you get home. NEVER wash your dog with chemical disinfectants. Your normal pet shampoo is fine.
If you have any further questions on the matter, please let us know and give us a call or shoot us a note. Here at the Town House for Dogs and Cats, we look forward to serving you with the highest quality. Your pet deserves the best. It deserves a Town House.