Veterinarian Dr. Katy Nelson lays out clear, practical steps to keep your pet safe and cared for if you catch COVID-19. This piece walks through preparing supplies, naming a backup caregiver, documenting medical needs, reducing transmission risk, and options if you must quarantine away from home.
Start by naming someone you trust to look after your animal if you get sick. Share a short, written plan with that person so they know feeding times, medical needs, and where to find critical items. Make sure the backup caregiver is willing and able to step in on short notice.
Put together a simple emergency kit that includes at least two weeks of food, medications in their original bottles, a leash, a carrier, familiar bedding, and favorite toys. Add basic grooming supplies, waste bags, and any special feeding gear your pet needs. Keep a printed copy of vaccination records and medication instructions with the kit.
Create a one-page care instruction sheet with medication dosages, vet contact info, microchip number, behavior notes, and preferred vets or clinics. Tape the sheet to the inside of a cabinet or store it in a clearly labeled folder so anyone stepping in can find it fast. Include a list of any known allergies or chronic conditions to avoid mistakes in a stressful moment.
If you test positive for COVID-19, try to limit close contact with your pet much like you would with people in your household. Current guidance supports minimizing face-to-face interactions, avoiding shared sleeping spaces, and asking the caregiver to handle walks and bathroom breaks. Simple measures reduce anxiety for you and lower any small risk to the animal.
Plan how practical needs will be met while you quarantine: who will walk the dog, clean the litter box, administer pills, or take the pet to a vet if needed. For dogs, short, supervised yard time or walks by a healthy person keeps routines intact. For cats and small pets, confinement to a single room with enrichment toys and a clean litter area helps reduce stress.
If you can’t find a friend or family member to help, call local animal welfare organizations or a boarding facility to ask about emergency foster or short-term boarding. Many communities have volunteer networks that step up during crises, but availability varies so call ahead. Keep payment methods and authorization forms ready to speed the process.
When transport or veterinary care is required, call ahead and explain the situation so staff can prepare for a safe handoff. Use a carrier or secure leash, bring the care sheet, and hand off responsibility to the designated caregiver if possible. Small steps now save last-minute scrambling and keep your pet calm and safe.
