What happens to your pets if you’re hospitalized with coronavirus? Tips to plan ahead

As the novel coronavirus continues to spread across the United States, some are wondering what will happen to their pets in the event they’re hospitalized with COVID-19.

The Human Society of the United States recommends making a preparedness plan for pets, calling it “critical” for the health and safety of our four-legged friends.

Don’t know where to start? Try these tips from the organization:

Do not touch your pets

If you fall ill, avoid contact with your pets, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked and sharing food, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you must interact with your pets, wash your hands before and after, the CDC said.

Choose someone who can help

If you’re hospitalized with coronavirus, you’ll need someone to help take care of your pets. Choose someone ahead of time — the human society recommends a friend or family member — to take over in your stead.

Stock up

Make sure you have plenty of supplies on hand in the event your pet might need to be moved or relocated to someone else’s home.

The human society recommends making sure you have plenty of food and crates.

Keep health records handy

Make sure your pet’s vaccines are current and keep copies of records handy “in the event that boarding becomes necessary,” the humane society said.

Keep a list of medications and dosages

Write down a list of your pet’s medications and be sure to include dosages as well as instructions for how to administer them.

The society also recommends putting your pet’s medication and the prescription from the veterinarian in an easily accessible to-go bag.

Some shelters also suggest jotting down your pet’s feeding schedule, KTVU reported.

Keep information up to date

Make sure your pet has a collar identification tag with a microchip and current contact information.

Contact your local shelter

If you’re having difficulty making a plan for your pet, reach out to your local animal shelter to determine what aid and resources are available.

During the pandemic, some shelters may offer temporary housing, subsidized veterinary services or donated supplies to make it easier for pet owners to care for their animals.

This story was originally published March 29, 2020 at 12:34 PM with the headline "What happens to your pets if you’re hospitalized with coronavirus? Tips to plan ahead."