There’s no doubt that the coronavirus (COVID-19) is creating challenges for all of us, both personally and professionally. First and foremost, we hope that you, your family and your pet(s) are remaining safe and healthy. We are writing to keep you informed of our recommendations as well as the steps we are taking to continue offering the care your pets need while providing you and our associates a safe environment.

We always keep our hospital clean and disinfected, and we have increased both the frequency and scope of these cleanings in accordance with CDC recommendations to help ensure both our clients and associates are kept safe. Similarly, handwashing hygiene is critically important in a hospital, a step we continue to emphasize to staff and clients. As always, we provide options for hand cleaning for clients and associates, and we work closely with our teams to ensure that anyone who is not feeling well understands that we support them staying home.

What do I do if I have been exposed to the coronavirus while my pet needs care?

In order to help us continue to serve pets in need, we ask that clients who have recently traveled to a high-risk country, had any exposure to symptomatic or confirmed positive cases, or confirmed positive themselves not bring their pets in the hospital unless they are having a medical emergency.

If your pet is due for routine care (annual exams, vaccines, dental cleanings, nail trims, or any other non-urgent appointments), please call us to discuss rescheduling to a later time. If it is determined that your appointment cannot be rescheduled for medical reasons, and your appointment is necessary, we ask that you have a healthy family member or friend bring your pet to the visit.

We have implemented a curbside concierge appointment protocol. Details can be read by clicking the link below:

Curbside Concierge Appointment Protocol

I have not been exposed and my pet is scheduled for a visit or is sick.

If your pet is sick or scheduled for routine care, we are open and fully operational. We recommend you follow these simple steps:

At SVG, we have various ways to help care for your pets without a trip or call to the hospital at this time:

Text Messaging: You can reply to texts from our Ezyvet software. Texting is only available during operating hours, and response times vary by hospital.

Email: You May send us an email with questions, keeping in mind that response time may be a bit delayed. Use info@stewartvet.com.

We know many of our clients consider their pets members of the family and, as such, are concerned about the health of ALL family members. When it comes to the health of your pet, your veterinarian is your best resource! Here is what you should know about COVID-19 and pets:

What is the coronavirus impact on pet health? Can dogs or cats get COVID-19?
Based on what we know currently, there is limited evidence to support any risk of COVID-19 to your pet and no evidence that you are at risk from your pet.

What if my pet’s not feeling well or is showing signs of flu-like illness?
If your pet shows any signs of illness, such as coughing, sneezing or lethargy, call us immediately and keep them indoors to prevent further spread. Signs of illness in dogs and cats are usually associated with various common viral and bacterial infections (kennel cough, canine flu, etc.) that are neither coronaviruses nor transmissible to people.

Should my pet wear a mask?
No. There’s no scientific evidence that face masks protect pets from infectious diseases or air pollutants, and masks have the potential to be unnecessarily scary or uncomfortable for pets.

Should I get my pet tested for COVID-19?
At this time, testing pets for COVID-19 is unwarranted, as there is currently no indication that apparently healthy and unexposed pets should be tested for the virus.

Where can I get more information on COVID-19?
You can get the latest information from reputable sources such as:

Please rest assured that SVG is monitoring the situation closely and that we will continue to consult and seek input from internal and external experts to provide the best guidance and advice for you, our valued clients. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions or concerns. (310)207-0651, info@stewartvet.com