Coronavirus Guidance For Animal Owners

28th March 2020

Advice on caring for animals during outbreak.

Guidance for animal owners related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has been published by the Scottish Government.

All animals owners are advised to:

• consider how they would continue to care for their animals if self-isolating

• keep dogs from self-isolating households on a lead when in public

• follow general hygiene measures

Rural Affairs Minister Mairi Gougeon said:

"Guidance should be followed by all animal owners to help prevent the spread of this virus. We will continue to review these guidelines regularly.

"If your household is self-isolating take time to plan how you will exercise your pet, ensuring that you avoid all contact with other members of the public. If you are too unwell to care for your pet and do not have anyone nearby who can help, please phone the Scottish SPCA animal helpline for further advice and support.

"As everyone must observe social distancing rules, all animal owners should take time to consider suitable areas to walk or exercise their pets, avoiding contact with other people.

"Livestock owners who are concerned about how to care for their animals can contact the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI) for help and advice."

Coronavirus (COVID-19) - Government Advice for pet owners in self-isolation is available on the Scottish Government website.

https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-to-owners-of-companion-animals-and-livestock/

Pet owners can contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999 for advice and support, or visit the SPCA website.

https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-to-owners-of-companion-animals-and-livestock/

Livestock Owners can contact the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution on 0300 111 4166 (7am - 11pm) or visit the Royal Scottish Agriculture Benevolent Institution website.

https://rsabi.org.uk/Home-Page

Currently there is no evidence that livestock or companion animals such as dogs and cats can be infected with coronavirus.

Guidance for beekeepers is also available on the Scottish Government website.

https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-beekeepers/