Recommendations from City of Berkeley Animal Care Services
Make a plan now for how you will care for your pets if you are hospitalized or become ill from COVID-19.
While many people will have mild symptoms and should prepare to take care of themselves at home, some will become severely ill and others will need hospitalization.
Planning ahead for your pets' care will reduce your stress and provide peace of mind.
Take steps to prepare
Gather supplies
Put together a bag of supplies your pet needs. It should include:
- Food to last at least 2 weeks
- 30 day supply of medications
- Travel kennel
- Treats, toys, and familiar items. These help reduce stress for your pet.
- Cat litter, or bedding for small pets
Make a written emergency plan
Document the key information someone would need in order to care for your pet if you are unable to. Include:
- Your name
- Your contact information, including cell phone
- Your pet's feeding schedule
- Any medical conditions and treatment instructions
- Contact information for your veterinarian
- Documentation of vaccinations
Identify a temporary caregiver
Talk to friends, family, or neighbors now about the possibility of taking in your pets if you are hospitalized. If you are not able to find someone in your network, make arrangements to use a boarding facility.
Public animal shelters should be a last resort. Although we are able to help in emergencies, the system isn't designed to provide long term care. In addition, space is limited and shelters may not have the capacity to help all animals in need.
Review your pet's needs with your caregiver before you become ill. Show them where your supplies are and make arrangements for them to get access to your home.
If you’re sick at home
Not everyone with COVID-19 gets hospitalized. Most people will need to recover at home, to preserve hospital resources for the most severe cases. You will still need to take precautions:
- If possible, have another member of your household care for pets while you're sick.
- Avoid contact with your pets, including petting, snuggling, being licked, or sharing food. While there have been no reports of pets becoming sick from COVID-19 in the United States, the CDC still recommends limiting contact with animals until more information is known.
- Arrange for someone else to take your pet on walks, to veterinary appointments, or any other essential outdoor activities. While you're sick, you should only leave your house to get medical care.
For more advice on preparing yourself and your pets for COVID-19, review CDC guidance for pet owners and recommendations from Berkeley's Health Officer on how to care for yourself at home.
