I hope this finds you and your loved ones healthy during these uncertain and scary times. If you’re like me, you’ve probably received a slew of messages from many companies and organizations regarding the coronavirus. This is yet another, but different, in that it addresses the virus’s impact on your four-legged family members – and on my small, family-owned business. With many of our clients canceling travel plans, telecommuting, and generally staying close to home, I have seen a drastic decline in reservations this week. This is, of course, to be expected but still frightening for me and the 16 employees of Hereford Bed & Biscuit, who count on me for their livelihood. In an effort to mitigate, as much as possible, the effects of this crisis on my business and my employees, I’ve done much research and implemented some changes that will, hopefully, allow you to feel comfortable to continue to utilize our services or consider trying a new one for your furry friend that could, in turn, make a big, positive impact on us.
What risk does the coronavirus pose to our pets?
We all love and want to protect our pets just as much as our human family members, so worrying about their health and safety in relation to the coronavirus is understandable. At this time, both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Organisation for Animal Health have declared that the transmission of COVID-19 is from human to human and there is zero indication that companion animals can get sick from or spread the COVID-19 virus. The CDC website states the following:
“To date, there is no evidence that companion animals can spread the disease. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare.”
We’re here to serve you.
Maintaining your pet’s normal routine as much as possible can help alleviate the extra stress they are likely to be feeling during these challenging times. Consider bringing your dog to daycare to burn off that extra energy and get some exercise and socialization. Maybe it’s time for a spruce up in our salon. Or if you still find yourself in need of boarding services, we have a comfy space waiting.
In the unlikely event that you do become sick with the coronavirus, the CDC recommends limiting contact with your pet, just like you would with humans, while you recover. We can help with that. Our pet taxi can come to you, or you can bring your pet to us, and we’ll follow the protocols outlined below to provide a safe environment for your pet.
Extra safety measures.
While safety and hygiene are always a top priority for our facility, we’ve implemented a strict policy to ensure the healthiest possible environment for our employees and clients – human and furry - while the coronavirus is still a threat.
All employees wear gloves at all times.
When employees’ gloves are removed for restroom breaks, eating, etc., hands are washed and new gloves put on.
No physical human-to-human contact between employees and employees and employees and human clients.
The lobby is sanitized with commercial sanitizing products after every, single client.
First indication of illness in employees – stay home.
Indication of illness in clients – call the front desk, and we’ll come get your pet.
CDC best practices posts throughout facility.
Most importantly, I want to thank all of you for the support and trust you place in our ability to care for your pets. We hope to see you soon.
Stay healthy,
Tommy Durst
Owner/Operator