Looking after pets in lockdown

PEOPLE are being encouraged to take measures not only to look after their own health, but also the health of their furry friends.

RSPCA Victoria chief executive officer Dr Liz Walker said pets could play a large role in their owners’ mental and physical health.

“Our relationship with our pets will become even more important as we deal with the coronavirus and the long-lasting implications it may have for Australians.

“During this period of isolation, pets can provide an antidote to loneliness and provide important and comforting companionship for many people.”

Studies have shown pet owners to be less susceptible to depression and have increased cardiovascular health.

With pets helping owners stay healthy, RSPCA Victoria is looking to ensure the opposite is also true.

It is advised that people have reasonable amounts of any medicine they give to their pets.

If their animal is in need of treatment, owners should call a veterinarian, but should not leave self-isolation of break quarantine in any scenario.

Dr Walker said there were also different things people could do depending on their own state of self-isolation or quarantine to help keep their pets active.

“If you are in quarantine or self-isolation, I recommend providing enrichment and exercising your dog from the comfort of your own home by playing games that keep their minds and body stimulated. These include hide and seek using food or toys, agility courses using furniture or scent work.

“For people who aren’t in quarantine or self-isolation and, importantly, who are not displaying any symptoms of coronavirus, taking your dog for a walk while maintaining social distance from others is still advised.”

All animals adopted from the RSPCA come microchipped, desexed and vet and behaviour checked.

People can view the animals the RSPCA has for adoption at rspcavic.org.