Prepare Your Pet

This page was last updated on Friday, May 15 at 11:21 a.m.

We’re doing our best to keep this page updated with the most accurate information from the CDC.  You can visit the CDC’s website for complete information regarding your pet and COVID-19.

If you become sick during this time.

If you become ill with COVID-19 or another illness during this time, and can still properly care for your pet, the best solution is keeping your pet in your home with you. Please note, if you are caring for your pet while you are sick, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands before and after interacting with them. Do not cuddle or pet your animal, share food with your pet or let your pet lick you while you are sick. The CDC is aware of a very small number of pets outside the United States reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 after close contact with people with COVID-19.

Who will care for your pet if you’re too ill to care for them?

While it’s not a fun question to think about, it’s critical that you know who will care for your pet in case you become ill or hospitalized due to COVID-19 and are unable to provide your pet care. Take the time today to talk with a potential caregiver and a back-up caregiver in case your go-to becomes ill. Think of them as your pet’s ‘furry godparents’. Ensure that these caregivers are comfortable and able to care for your pet if you become ill or hospitalized and review your pet’s emergency plan with them. Be sure to talk with them about your pet’s daily routine and let them know about any quirks your pet has or any medication they’re on.

Create a Furry Godparent Box

What should I do to prepare my pet?

Your pet’s emergency plan is critical during this time to ensure they will be cared for in case you become sick or hospitalized. In addition to finding caregivers for your pet, it’s also critical to ensure they have everything they need ready to go if you are no longer able to care for them. You should go through the below emergency plan now and ensure that each item is checked off and that you are prepared.

Download Pet Emergency Checklist

Your Pet’s Emergency Plan:

• • • Name and contact information for someone who can care for your pet
    • Name and contact information for your back-up in case your go-to gets sick
    • At least two weeks worth of food and pet supplies (toys, bowls, treats)
    • Accessible pet crate or carrier
    • Updated vaccination records
    • Pet is wearing a collar and ID tag at all times
    • Your contact information is updated with your pet’s microchip company
    • You have at least two weeks of medications in hand and a document that lists medications and dosages
    • Your pet’s regular veterinary clinic and an emergency veterinarian’s contact information
    • Daily care instructions including:
      • How often and what quantity food does your pet eat?
      • Where do they sleep at night?
      • Do they go somewhere specific when you leave?
      • Do they need specific medication at a certain time each day?
      • How often do they need to go outside to use the bathroom?
      • Do they have specific grooming needs?
      • Are there things your pet is scared of?
      • Does your pet get along with other pets or humans?
      • Are there things your pet really likes?

Your Pet and COVID-19

We’re following the CDC’s updates and guidance on pets and COVID-19. Currently, the CDC is aware of a very small number of pets outside the United States reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 after close contact with people with COVID-19.  For more information on COVID-19 and your pet, please click here.