COVID 19 Update

What do we know

• San Diego County has declared a local health emergency. This is done in order to receive priority supplies. 
• Person-to-person spread has been reported, including in California
• Transmission is contact with infection saliva & mucus droplets; touching a contaminated surface and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes. Contamination can be spread by touching additional surfaces before hand washing. 
• The best way to avoid becoming ill is to avoid exposure. 
• Public gatherings, schools, the Zoo/Safari Park, Sea World, Disneyland, and other large attractions are temporarily closed. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I still bring my pet to the vet?
A: If you are healthy, there is no reason you should not bring your pet in as planned. During times like this, preventative medicine is more important than ever. Keeping ourselves and our pets healthy through proactive care ensures we are in the best shape to fight off disease. We also want to ensure we manage existing disease and treat new problems quickly. If you are not healthy, or believe you have been exposed to COVID 19, please call prior to coming inside. 

Q: If I am sick, and my pet is sick, what should I do? 
A: We will accommodate you to the best of our ability. It may be appropriate for you to wait in your car for your appointment while your pet comes inside, or instead drop off your pet for a few hours and pick up later. We can review your pet's history via phone, take your pet from you in the parking lot, and phone later to review the exam findings and treatment recommendations. We may be able to accommodate house calls, medication delivery, and/or telemedicine.

Q: Does COVID 19 affect pets? 
A: Most likely no. This disease is either predominantly human or purely human, and which one is still under investigation. There is currently no evidence that our pets would become sick or spread the disease if exposed.

Q: Should I be worried about catching COVID 19 from my dog or cat?
A: No. While we are still figuring out if your pet can catch it from you, this is a disease that is spread people-to-people. Your pet can act as a contaminated surface. 

Q: Where can I look for more information? 
A: 

• The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• The San Diego County Website
• The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
• Check our our infographic below: