Worried about getting your pet groomed? Considering getting a puppy but not sure of the rules? Wondering if you can start puppy training soon? Following the Government's recent updates to lockdown regulations, we have summarised the new guidelines on how pet services have been affected or changed.
GROOMERS
Grooming services if possible should be delayed to avoid necessary human contact and protect public health. Many groomers can maintain contact with clients remotely and offer to them about their pet’s coat. If visiting the groomer is necessary, you must book an appointment to ensure that social distancing can be accommodated.
- If your dog is taken to the site, you may be asked to remain in your vehicle and wait for someone to collect your dog
- Dogs from self-isolating or infected households cannot be admitted until the household is clear
Mobile and home groomers can continue to operate providing that they can maintain social distancing and follow the most up to date government guidance.
BOARDING YOUR PET
Most boarding establishments will be prioritising pets of people hospitalised from coronavirus, key workers and vulnerable people who may not be able to care for their pets. Before you take or collect your pet from the boarding establishment, make sure to:
- Wash your pet’s equipment thoroughly i.e. bed, collar, toys and bowls
- Your pet should be wiped down before they are admitted or returned to you
- If your pet’s vaccinations are not up to date, please call your vet, they be able to offer a vaccination if boarding is essential
- Pets from infected households will be kept in an isolation facility for three days
DOG DAY CARE AND DOG WALKERS
Dog daycare and dog walking services can continue to operate, with priority given for key workers, shielded and vulnerable people who are unable to make alternative safe arrangements for their dog.
- Dogs may be collected from your home or you may drop off and collect your dogs by appointment only
- Wipe down or bathe your dog thoroughly before boarding any vehicle
- Some establishments may not accept dogs from infected or self-isolating households
- If they are willing your pet will not be mixed with dogs from non-infected households
- Dogs should be walked on a lead locally, maintaining social distance from other people and pets, and not transported in a vehicle to exercise unless absolutely necessary
DOG AND CAT BREEDERS
Although the ban on third party sales of puppies and kittens came into effect on 6th April 2020 in England, in some cases, it may be necessary to allow the breeder to take the puppy or kitten to their new home. If that’s the case, then the puppy/kitten:
- Should be at least eight weeks old
- Should not be taken to an infected or self-isolating household
- No equipment such as a basket should be given to you by the breeder
- Paperwork and other checks and documentation should be completed ahead of the meeting
PET RE-HOMING AND RESCUE ORGANISATIONS
Animal rescue and rehoming establishments can continue to re-home pets by offering transport to their new home. Social distancing must be maintained and the pet should be bathed or wiped down prior to leaving and upon arrival to their new home. Animals will not be re-homed to coronavirus infected or self-isolating households.
PET SHOPS
Pet shops have continued to provide pet food and other essential supplies during the lockdown. If you need to go to a pet shop, please remember to maintain social distancing and health precautions.
DOG TRAINERS
Dog training classes are not allowed, because it is difficult to maintain social distancing. However training of dogs is an important element of their social development. Dog trainers can continue to provide advice on training on a one-to-one basis using technology to connect with you. Some dog trainers may also offer training classes via video.