Vets across the country will remain open as there is no evidence that animals can contract coronavirus, a leading surgeon has said.
However, Veterinary Ireland said practices have introduced new strict rules to comply with governmental advice regarding personal distancing.
Dr Conor Geraghty, Veterinary Surgeon and President of Veterinary Ireland said: “Many practices have split their teams into two or three core groups with no physical contact between them.
“This is to ensure that if a member of one group contracts the virus and is isolating, then others can step in to ensure the practice remains operating.”
Dr Alan Rossiter of Veterinary Ireland has urged those in isolation now to allow anyone else to touch your pet.
He said: “Testing has been done and there is no evidence to suggest that pet dogs or cats can be infected with SARS-CoV-2.
“However it is in theory possible that a virus from an infected person could land on a pet’s coat and remain viable for a short period of time.
“Therefore if in isolation for whatever reason, or if you have symptoms, do not let other people touch your pets and keep dogs and cats indoors.”
