Resources
The COVID-19 crisis affects us all, including our animals, and we all have lots of questions about how we will be impacted individually.
This page is designed to offer information about pets and how COVID-19 might affect them, and resources that animal owners can access to help through this time.
Important Information
There have been a small number of animals that have become infected with COVID-19 including several dogs in Hong Kong and tigers at a zoo in New York. While the animals tested positive for the virus, they did not get sick from the same way humans do. So far there is no evidence animals are infecting humans and experts believe they would have seen cases by now if this was the case. The larger impact on animals will be how illness and financial hardship of owners affects the animals they care for.
The Alberta SPCA recommends pet owners have the following:
- 14 day supply of food and other supplies for animals
- 14 day supply of pet medications
- A plan for who will take care of your animals if you become sick
- Develop a plan on who will take care of your animals if you become sick
- Have a feed on hand to get you through until the end of May
- Have a minimum 14 day supply of medicine on hand
Ongoing Care for Animals During COVID-19
If you are not ill:
- Interact with your animal as you normally would (maintain regular feedings, playtime, etc.)
- Take your dog for walks – remember, maintain social distance.
- Practice good hygiene (wash hands, keep animal food dishes, water bowls, bedding, etc. clean)
If you are ill and suspect COVID-19
- Limit contact with animals. Have a member of your household take care of walking, feeding and enrichment.
- Do not share food, snuggle, or kiss and hug animals. Wash hands before and after contact with them.
The Alberta SPCA is unable to provide medical intervention or advice. If your pet is ill, please contact a veterinarian
For assistance for pets within the City of Edmonton, please contact the Edmonton Humane Society
For assistance for pets within the City of Calgary, please contact the Calgary Humane Society
Resources for Companion Animals
AARCS Pet Food Assistance Program
Pet Food Banks
Traditional food banks that may have pet food
Alberta Helping Animals Society – Vet Care for Vulnerable Populations
Tails of Help – Vet Care Subsidy Program
Helpful Websites
Worms & Germs – Scientifically reliable information about pets and COVID-19
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association – information on vet services and animal health
Alberta Veterinary Medical Association – information on vet services and animal health specific to Alberta
World Small Animal Veterinary Assoc. – information from vets and for the general public
World Organisation for Animal Health – General information about animal health
Resources for Livestock Owners
Helpful Websites
Canadian Food Inspection Agency – Information on livestock care and food safety
World Organisation for Animal Health – General information about animal health
Alberta Pork – Information for pork producers
Help for People and Pets in Crisis
Mental Health Helpline – 1-877-303-2642
Child Abuse Hotline – 1-800-387-KIDS (5437)
Protection for Persons in Care Reporting Line – 1-888-357-9339
Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence – 1-866-403-8000
