The Montgomery County Animal Resource Center requires all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask while in our building. To ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers, and visitors, there is hand sanitizer available throughout the building, as well as masks upon request. We encourage guests to practice social distancing when possible and are continuing to regularly and thoroughly clean throughout the shelter.
We have also reopened the Bark Park and the big hill to the public, effective June 2, 2021.
First and foremost, do not panic! By following some basic hygiene practices, you can limit your risk of contracting COVID-19. We still recommend washing your hands with soap and water after contact with any animal. This protects you and others against various common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.
Preparation is key. Identify backup caretakers for your pets ahead of time in the event you are confirmed to have COVID-19 and are not able to care for them. If you can’t find a backup caretaker, and public health officials require home care and isolation, wear a well-fitted mask and limit interaction with pets and other animals.
In the event that you become too sick to care for your animal, having a preparedness plan is essential. Some steps to take include:
Pets should have proper identification: a collar with ID tag and a registered microchip with current, up-to-date contact information.
An Emergency Boarding grant program, supported by a generous donation from Purina-RedRover’s Purple Leash Project, is now available to help animals belonging to owners who are hospitalized due to COVID-19.
Grants will cover up to two weeks of boarding while the owner is being treated. Applicants must: contact area boarding facilities to find reasonably priced options; ensure boarding is through a business and not an individual; provide a written estimate and final invoice; obtain the owner’s permission if someone else submits the application; and provide updates on the pet owner’s condition.
Grants can also cover costs of vaccinations needed for the animal to enter boarding. Nicole Forsyth, RedRover President & CEO, said the grants are designed to enhance the human-animal bonds that are even more important during times of crisis.
“Knowing a pet is well cared for will hopefully bring some peace of mind to those undergoing COVID-19 treatment,” she said.