HARRISBURG — In recognition of the critical role boarding kennels, doggie daycares, shelters, sanctuaries, and rescues play in ensuring essential workers and at-risk individuals have a safe place to house dogs and the need for continued care for Pennsylvania’s strays, the Department of Agriculture today issued guidance for protecting staff and volunteers of such facilities. Advice was also offered to pet owners to protect themselves and their furry friends during COVID-19 mitigation.

“Animal companions play a significant role for Pennsylvania’s families and communities,” said Secretary Redding. “Its important that facilities are available to care for pets as healthcare workers and other essential employees work long hours on the frontlines of COVID-19 mitigation; and that strays waiting in shelters for a forever home can continue to have reliable safe havens.”

Boarding kennels, doggie daycares, shelters, sanctuaries, and rescue facilities are encouraged to continue operations, but the decision is a voluntary, business-by-business decision. Those that remain open should apply this guidance to their operations in an effort to minimize risk for exposure to COVID-19 for employees, volunteers, and Pennsylvanians using their services.

The Guidance for Boarding Facilities and Shelters includes procedures for preparing the employees and volunteers, preparing facilities, and how to intake animals being received from COVID-19 positive homes.

Pennsylvania pet owners were also offered the following advice:

documented with dosages and administering directions, including the prescription and contact information for your veterinarian.

According to the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 is not zoonotic and cannot be contracted or transmitted by cats and dogs.