Coronavirus Advice For Dog Owners

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Firstly, on behalf of all of us at APDAWG, we'd just like to say our thoughts are with anyone who's been personally affected & lost friends or family from this terrible crisis. 

For those of you with dogs, or databases full of dog-owners, here are a few tips to help cooped-up canines & holed-up humans self-isolate. 

It's also important to let concerned dog-lovers know that dogs aren't a primary source of Covid-19 so should not be abandoned.

Exercise must be limited to one longer walk per day as part of every individual's exercise allocation (multiple walks can happen only when multiple people in household). 

Stay at least 2 metres away from people when out; wash hands before/after walking & don't touch anyone else's dog. 

Garden exercise is encouraged providing space is enclosed/sealed off from other humans/dogs. 

Combat boredom by encouraging play/games using balls, chasing, obstacle courses, even treat-dispensing puzzles like snuffle mats & interactive toys. 

Recognise signs of stress & treat accordingly with plug-ins if appropriate. 

Teach your dog new tricks & if safe/OK to touch in/around their mouth perhaps learn how to brush their teeth. 

Reduce food/treat rations if you suspect less exercise & keep a diary of your dog's weight. 

Play music to distract (reggae a favourite apparently). 

Most vets are only running emergency services but keep flea/worm treatments up to date. 

Please consider donating money online to local animal shelters that are currently really struggling. 

For more advice our friends Canine & Feline Sector Group's excellent infographic & watch APDAWG's co-founder/secretariat & vet Marc Abraham speaking on Sky News on 24 March here. 

Stay safe folks & your dogs!