GOOD hygiene is not just the key for humans during the coronavirus crisis, but is also the best way to protect our pets says the RSPCA.
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Victoria's chief veterinarian Emma Bronts says while many pets were probably happy to see their humans home more with them, it was important that people remembered to keep good practices around them.
"As always, it is advisable to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets," Dr Bronts said.
"This protects you against various common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella that can pass between pets and humans.
Pet owners should continue to practice good hand hygiene after handling their pet's food, food bowls and water bowls, and cat litter boxes. You should continue to wash pet food and water bowls regularly."
There has been some reports of panic buying for pets with a number of supermarkets and pet retailers running low on essentials such as food and litter.
PetStock says it is working closely with suppliers to make sure pet needs are readily available.
"We are working with all supply partners to ensure we keep our shelves stocked with essential items for all pets," it said in a statement.
"Despite increased demand on some items we are working hard to ensure we have stock available at all times.
"Customers are encouraged to search online if you can't find the item you need in store. Item limits may apply."
Petbarn says it had changed store opening hours to allow staff to restock shelves and clean stores.
"Until further notice, we only accept EFTPOS payments and no longer accept cash transactions, except in extenuating circumstances," it said.
"This decision has been made in light of the current environment and our continued focus on the health and safety of our customer and teams."
If you own a cat, the best thing you can do is cause the least disruption to their routine as you can, and ensuring that they always have access to their essentials.
Make sure that they've got good hiding spots, access to food and water bowls and litter trays scattered around the house as well as items like scratching posts.
Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment so you should take care to notice any signs of anxiety.
For dog owners then key is to be sure not to overfeed your pet and adjust their meal proportions accordingly if you've given them other food throughout the day.
Treats should only make up 10 per cent of their diet as they are not considered meals.
if you become sick and are unable to continue looking after your animal, it is important you Identify a trusted person or service who can care for your pet for you, keep at least a two-week supply of pet food and medication on hand, record clear instructions about dosages and how to administer your pet's medications, ensure your pet's microchip details are up to date and if your pet's booster vaccination is required at this time, talk to your vet to work out a plan.
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