COVID-19 Resources
Volunteer today! Sonoma CART has a reserve of trained animal Disaster Services Workers who are available to support when activated by the county. Sonoma CART will host regular updates with partner organizations and the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate the animal component of response. You can go to SoCoEmergency.org for updates specific to Sonoma County and for local resources.
How are pets affected by Covid 19?
In these difficult times, the healing power of the human-animal bond adds to community resilience. Sonoma County has a robust network of animal organizations who are united in their efforts to support those of you with pets who might need assistance. Below are some resources to help you manage your pets, while you look out for your own health and safety.
CDC Report: COVID-19 and Animals
What can you do at home to aid the animal response?
Stay healthy and follow the State and County issued order to shelter in place
Make a plan for pet care now, and communicate it with your family
Consider supporting the organizations providing these valuable resources
Plan for the care of your pet, should you become ill!
There have been reports of a dog testing positive for Covid-19. Several veterinary institutions are investigating this to get a better understanding of risks to dogs, and potential for cross contamination. There have been no reports of humans catching Covid-19 from dogs or other pets. Until we have a better understanding of risk to dogs, we recommend that you assign pet care to a family member or connected acquaintance who is not ill. Start planning for this contingency now, as the safest place for your pet is at home with you.
Avoid snuggling, sharing food, playing and sleeping with your dog if you are ill.
Designate a family member to do feeding, walking and playing.
If your pet becomes ill while you are in self quarantine or infected with Covid-19, follow your veterinarian’s protocols for veterinary care, which will likely be communicated when you call in for an appointment. Indicate to them if you are ill or in self quarantine due to exposure. There are resources listed below for emergency pet transport to a DVM, if you are unable to arrange transport. Make sure your veterinarian has an email designating an alternate care giver.
If you must care for your pet while ill, wear a mask and wash your hands before and after handling.
If a connected acquaintance is available, leave the animal in an accessible room for the care giver with posted instructions including food type, quantity, daily routines, leash/halter access, and veterinary contact information. Create a visit schedule that allows you to avoid any contact.
- The care giver should wear gloves when entering the adjacent room and handling the dog or cats, and touching surfaces. A mask is not required, as the ill person is not in the room. Ask the care giver to email or call with any concerns, including: not drinking, eating, urinating, defecating, significant lameness or swelling, or vomiting and lethargy.
- Make sure the designated care room does not have accessible trash, plants or other hazards the animal can access while unattended. Wipe down surfaces around food and leashes etc. and leave Clorox wipes in the room.
- Care giver should dispose of used gloves in trash can outside of care area. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water as directed for Covid -19.
- In an abundance of caution, the care giver should change clothes before handling pets at home to avoid transmission of other diseases or parasites, fleas etc.
Basic Animal Etiquette During COVID-19
Companion Animals
Do not pet other people’s dogs. Maintain social distancing of 6 feet and walk single file or stop on trail to facilitate distancing when approaching other groups.
If you are ill or in self quarantine due to known exposure, stay home and make arrangements for your pet or walk your pet locally using social distancing. Wear a mask if appropriate.
Pets are sensitive to the emotional state of their human companions. These are stressful times and you may experience some “cooped up” behavior from your pets. If so, here are some great resources to keep your dog busy and tune up their manners.
Large Animals
Designate a family member or friend to feed and water animals if you are too ill
Fill troughs and ensure 2-4 weeks of feed are on hand. Plan to order feed and transition onto new hay over several days. Don’t wait until you are out of hay.
If safe for your horses, wean onto pasture such that care is minimal. It is essential that introduction to grass or new food occur over a 7-10 day period with incremental exposure.
Leave animals' leads, feeding instructions and medical records in a sheltered but obvious place.
Post your veterinary contact information in the barn, and make sure to email your veterinarian to designate caretaker if you become seriously ill.
Look to these organizations for help!
Pets Lifeline can provide dog and cat food to Sonoma County residents affected and in need.
Sonoma County Horse Council has compiled a number of resources for financial aid, barn safety, and trail/park guides for horse owners.
Wine Country Animal Lovers Wine Country Animal Lovers organization has grants and resources available to provide pet food and delivery, financial assistance for emergency and urgent veterinary care, and pet care assistance to up valley residents