The WSVMA introduces a new brochure for pet owners that includes information on what coronaviruses are, how it’s spread and how to protect pets. It also includes frequently asked questions about can pets contract COVID-19 and if people can contract it from their pets. Download the brochure here. Posted April 7, 2020...
Read MoreThe Veterinary Board of Governors (VBOG) has held two meetings to discuss guidance for veterinarians during the COVID-19 crisis. New guidance is not yet finalized but it’s expected that they’ll soon issue policy statements that address establishing the VCPR via the use of telemedicine, continuing education credits, supervision and tasks for veterinary technicians and staff, and dispensing prescriptions. VBOG is meeting weekly to determine best practices for veterinarians while facing the realities of operating under stay at home orders and only...
Read MoreCDC recommends the use of cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. The purpose of the use of face coverings is to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have SARS-CoV-2 and do not know it from transmitting it to others. The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those should continue...
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The Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL), on the Washington State University campus in Pullman, has begun limited testing of animal samples for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causative agent for COVID-19. Currently, the test is only available for agencies and academic institutions. The current testing was not developed with and does not use human health testing resources. No additional personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary for the testing program as designed in a coordinated effort with the nation’s animal disease diagnostic...
Read MoreSpokane County's Health Officer has contacted the Inland Empire Veterinary Medical Association with a request for the veterinary community to donate surplus personal protective equipment to aid in the COVID-19 crisis. The County is in critical need of masks, gloves, disposable gowns, and face shields. Donated PPE can be dropped off at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center on the Broadway entrance, Spokane Valley from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Two local veterinary hospitals, Wandermere Animal Hospital and SouthCare Animal Medical...
Read MoreState Veterinarians across the U.S are concerned about animal susceptibility to coronavirus and possible links between animals and the spread of COVID-19 among humans. For horse owners and people who work with horses, we see little cause for concern about equine susceptibility or transmission; no evidence currently links the virus that causes COVID-19 with disease in horses nor are there any indications that horses can infect humans with the virus. A virus in the coronavirus family, equine coronavirus (ECoV), can cause gastrointestinal disease...
Read MoreThe WA Secretary of Health has extended health profession license expiration dates for licenses up for renewal between April 1 and September 30, 2020. The order includes licenses for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary medication clerks. Licenses that expire during this six month period must be renewed by September 30, 2020. This extension will allow health professionals to focus on patient care and promote continued patient safety during the COVID-19 outbreak. Because renewal payment won’t be required until September 30, 2020,...
Read MoreThings are changing quickly on the terms and rules of the business loans established by the CARES Act. To keep abreast of the most recent updates, including from today, visit the AVMA website. AVMA has developed a suite of resources to help you understand the relief programs and decide how best to use them for your individual situation: Free webinar: CARES Act small business loan programs Learn how to prepare for the new Paycheck Protection Program launching Friday, and understand how it...
Read MorePetriage offers a proprietary, advanced online teletriage tool that uses a sophisticated algorithm to identify what may be ailing a dog or cat, enabling pet owners to assess the need for veterinary care and their family veterinarian to communicate with them. Veterinarians can assess the urgency of household pets’ health symptoms remotely and deliver trusted recommendations. In addition, the software enables pets’ medical data to be integrated effortlessly into the vet’s practice management system. In addition to its ability to host...
Read MoreNew Links Paid Sick Leave and Coronavirus (COVID-19) Common Questions - WA Dept. of Labor & Industries Interim recommendations for intake of companion animals from households where humans with COVID-19 are present - AVMA Considerations for food animal veterinarians during the COVID-19 pandemic - AVMA Why We Must Suspend S/N During COVID-19: Voices from the Field – for Animal Welfare Advancement WSVMA COVID-19 Resources Tips for Disaster Responders – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Cleaning and...
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