Dear Clients,

As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an evolving topic for our clients, NDVH has reviewed multiple health organization recommendations.  First and foremost, we are monitoring and taking precautions to protect you and your pets during what the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared as a pandemic.  Below is important information on ways NDVH continues to protect our community.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS PET PARENTS SHOULD KNOW:

·         According to the CDC, there is currently no known reason to believe that any animals, including pets in the US, can spread COVID-19

·         To date, the CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19

·         The CDC always recommends following everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of illness.

 

As a rule, pet parents should practice good hygiene habits, including washing hands before and after handing pets/food/supplies, and maintaining a clean environment.  If you see any changes in your pet’s health condition, contact your family veterinarian.

 

NDVH IS PUTTING THESE SAFEGUARDS IN PLACE:

·         Continuing to maintain our clean and sterile environments while taking additional precautions for the safety of our clients

o   Cleaning practices have been increased in high-traffic areas, and multiple hand-sanitizing stations have been installed throughout our hospitals.

o   Furniture, counters, floors, door handles, exam rooms, and patient treatment areas are thoroughly (and frequently) disinfected.

o   Clients that enter our office will be asked to wash their hands. 

·         Our staff practices good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes, not touching their faces, and not coming in close proximity to those feeling “under the weather”. 

·         Management encourages sick team members to stay home to prevent the spread of illness. 

 

If your pet needs emergency care:

If you are sick with a fever and/or respiratory symptoms (cough, difficulty breathing) and your pet needs attention:

• You must call ahead so we can confirm that your pet needs to be seen, and to give you instructions on how to proceed.
• If it is determined that your pet needs to be seen immediately, we will ask that someone else who is not showing any symptoms bring your pet to the hospital on your behalf.
• If our doctor determines that your pet needs to be seen immediately and no one can bring your pet on your behalf, please call our clinic number (797-4855) when you arrive at the parking lot. Please wait in your car and do not enter the hospital. 
• Please cover your mouth and nose if you need to sneeze or cough.
• We will meet you at your car to assess your pet, and we will then bring your pet into the hospital for exam and treatment. 
• We will call when the exam is complete to discuss recommendations. 

 

For scheduled appointments:

·         Clients should reschedule if sick with fever and/or respiratory symptoms (cough, difficulty breathing). 

·         If pet needs to be seen, we ask that someone else who is not showing any symptoms bring your pet to the hospital on your behalf. 

·         If you are healthy, and showing no signs of illness, you may bring your pet into the hospital.  Please wash your hands once in, or use the provided antiseptic before approaching the front desk. 

 

Please know that NDVH remains steadfast and confident in our ability to navigate this uncertain period and are doing all we can to protect you, your pets and our employees.