For the past few weeks, we’ve been staying home as much as we can to avoid catching the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Those of us who have fur babies worry about keeping them safe, too.

Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), in an email sent to journalists and bloggers, recently shared these tips on caring for our cats and dogs during the COVID-19 quarantine:

  • Never put face masks on animals, as they can cause breathing difficulties.
  • Allow animals to move about your home normally — don’t cage or crate them.
  • People who are sick or under medical attention for COVID-19 should avoid close contact with animals and have another member of their household care for animals so as not to get the virus on their fur. The coronavirus can be left on animals’ fur, just as it can remain on a doorknob, a handrail, another human hand, or any other surface that an infected person has touched.
Snow, our Pomeranian baby

“Our dogs and cats rely on us to take care of them year round, and especially during times of crisis,” says PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker.

“PETA is asking everyone to ensure that their animals are still getting healthy food, plenty of exercise, and lots of love,” he added.

PETA also shared its emergency response line  —  0999-8887382. Anyone who is quarantined and unable to care for their companion animals or who encounters an animal in immediate physical danger or in urgent need of food or veterinary care should call the hotline.

COVID-19 PETA pets Pomeranian