03/18/2020
COVID-19 Updates
At Richmond Green Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to the health of our clients and companion patients. As such, we are closely monitoring the rapid developing COVID-19 virus pandemic. At this time, we are committed to remain OPEN and continue to serve the pet population of Richmond Hill. Health and safety for all is, of course, the top priority and we want to ensure our patients, clients, staff, and community are protected during this time of heightened respiratory illness. We would like to share with you a few updates.
What are we doing?
On top of our current comprehensive cleaning and safety protocols, we have further increased our efforts around the clinic to minimize the exposure to the COVID-19 virus. We use viricidal spray frequently on exposed surfaces – especially surfaces areas in the reception area, exam rooms, and washroom.
Our team is highly educated in infection control, and disease management for our patients, and the majority of our knowledge also applies to this human-based pandemic. We are committed to continue our medical services for patients with accidents, emergencies, and illnesses, and will continue to deliver wellness vaccine and preventive appointments, especially with tick and heartworm season nearly upon us.
What is the risk to our beloved pets?
According to WHO, the risk of COVID-19 virus transmission from humans to cats and dogs is likely INCREDIBLY LOW (There has ONLY been one case of a dog who tested ‘weak positive’ in Hong Kong) and the chance of them transmitting the virus to humans is exceedingly low, based on current information and study.
Despite this, they still recommend frequent handwashing around pets and discourage letting your dog and/or cat lick your face, until more is known.
What can our clients do?
In order to help us to minimize COVID-19 virus exposure in our clinic, we ask the following:
If you are in self-isolation, we ask you not to bring yourself or pet in clinic. If it is a life threatening emergency, we will direct you to one of the emergency hospitals who will have specific protocols for you to follow.
If you have traveled to an at risk area/country, have come into possible contact with a COVID-19 positive person, or have any sign of respiratory disease, we may ask you to delay any routine care or elective surgeries for your pet. If your pet is sick and needs an appointment, we may ask you to drop off your pet for an exam (admit your pet from your car directly). Please remain in the vehicle and our doctor or staff member will take your pet's history over the phone. You may be asked to stay on the line so our doctor can exam your pet and keep you informed throughout the appointment.
We highly encourage you to use our hand sanitizer stations around the clinic, even if you feel completely healthy.
For each appointment, please help to limit the amount of people coming into the clinic to 2 at max. Our staff is happy to help you if you need extra assistance coming or leaving our clinic.
Although this continues to be a rapidly evolving situation, Richmond Green Veterinary Clinic wants to reiterate that, all of us will continue to do whatever we can to ensure everyone and every patient’s well-being and safety.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and the advice of public health officials. We will keep you posted on our website and social media channels.
Thank you for your continued commitment and ongoing support during these extraordinary circumstances.