Pet / Animal Owners and Workers within the Animal Sector Covid Restrictions Guidelines
Summary of new COVID restrictions (from 5th November) relating to those with pets/animals and those who work in this sector.
For full details of the guidance see https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
Premises/businesses which can remain open:
Veterinary surgeons, animal rescue centres, boarding facilities and pet shops. Livestock markets and livestock auctions. Animal grooming facilities may also stay open but must only be used for the purposes of the animal’s welfare (and not for aesthetic purposes). Garden centres and agricultural supplies shops. Boarding establishments may have low occupancy rates owing to cancelled holidays, however there remains a requirement to care for the pets of people hospitalised from coronavirus and for key workers, and vulnerable people who may not be able to care for their pets. Boarding establishments may make arrangements with shelters and rescues if needed. Commercial day care may continue to operate and priority should be given for key workers, and vulnerable people who are unable to make alternative safe arrangements for their dog. Dogs may be collected from their home or owners may drop off and collect their dogs by appointment only, Home dog day care may continue to operate and priority should be given for key workers who are unable to make alternative safe arrangements for their dog. Dog walkers can continue to operate. An owner may take a pet to be groomed by appointment if the grooming is necessary for welfare reasons. Groomers can collect dogs from client’s homes a. Mobile groomers may continue to operate providing that they can maintain social distancing. Dog and Cat Breeders: Potential owners will be unable to visit a litter in person to view a puppy or kitten with their mother in its home environment and so some virtual means of allowing potential purchasers to view is necessary. Puppies and kittens ready for sale in November should already have been viewed prior to the new restrictions. Puppies and kittens that are ready to be rehomed should be delivered to their new owners by the breeder. Where this may not be possible and it is considered reasonably necessary for welfare reasons, they may be collected. Animal rescue and rehoming establishments should continue to rehome pets by offering to transport them to the home of adopters. Where this may not be possible and it is considered reasonably necessary for welfare reasons, establishments may allow adopters to collect pets by appointment. Businesses that provide a microchip implant service may continue to operate Dog trainers may continue to provide advice on training basis using technology to connect the trainer and client. It may also be possible to run classes by video link. If a trainer can utilise a secure safe outside area to provide training, clients can meet the trainer there. Indoor training classes are not allowed. Pet sitters may operate providing they can maintain social distancing rules and following the Government guidance on those working in other people’s homes.
