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.