COVID-19 and Veterinary Care
Introduction
The Coronavius (COVID-19) is challenging many customs of everyday life, and obtaining avian veterinary care is no exception. We are having regular queries here about how to access veterinary evaluation and treatment while observing general COVID infection control practices.
Foremost among issues of concern are 1) social distance and accessing care, 2) safe cleaning of surfaces and skin, and 3) appropriate use of personal protection equipment (PPE) items. Looking at each of these three concerns...
Introduction
The Coronavius (COVID-19) is challenging many customs of everyday life, and obtaining avian veterinary care is no exception. We are having regular queries here about how to access veterinary evaluation and treatment while observing general COVID infection control practices.
Foremost among issues of concern are 1) social distance and accessing care, 2) safe cleaning of surfaces and skin, and 3) appropriate use of personal protection equipment (PPE) items. Looking at each of these three concerns...
1. Social Distance and Accessing Care
For those of us who can manage it, "stay safe, stay home" is our new mantra. For those of us who must go to work, or complete necessary errands, or access medical care for ourselves or our birds, it can get complicated. Let's look just at the avian medical issues. There may be instances where you need to try to access care at a facility where you have already established yourself. Don't just assume that these veterinarians are closed. Many (mine included) are working hard to establish curbside appointments, or advanced-text communication to facilitate quick entry/exits at offices, or other social-distance-conscious options. Call and ask, preferably ahead of time of an emergency. If your preferred vet can't help, then call around and explore options... again, ahead of time!
I used a favorite search engine to get an idea of online resources, looking for "avian veterinary hotline Cleveland (my home area). I recommend some occasional creative searching, just to make sure you're tuned in to the latest. Here's what I turned up as of the day of the writing of this post. https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf...hUKEwixzoeXlMzoAhUDbq0KHZaVBDQQ4dUDCAg&uact=5
As an ongoing tool, here is what I routinely offer to members. Certified Avian Vets can be identified at https://abvp.com/animal-owners/find-an-abvp-specialist/
General Avian Veterinarians can be searched at http://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803 Although there are certainly exceptions, any of the vets listed here should be better prepared than a regular vet. Also, sometimes I find a place to start just by Googling "avian veterinarian near [your location]".
As far as safe distancing from friends and family (including avoidance of touching), pay attention to the latest information given out by civic and trusted media. Your birds are depending upon you to stay safe and healthy. Be rigorous and uncompromising! You're their world.
2. Safe Cleaning of Surfaces and Skin.
As responsible parronts, we have to be careful with certain cleaners. Most of us have developed methods of cleaning new items, performing routine housecleaning of cages and accessories, and maintaining safe cleaning and storage of foods. In general, no need for changing tried and true habits. When introducing new items (from accessories to foods), safe and thorough cleaning is needed. Even if your birds don't eat an item, chances are it will wind up in their beaks or feet, and therefore must be safe. Don't forget to discard all external packaging carefully and then wash your hands.
Some reading for you...
http://www.parrotforums.com/general-parrot-information/29173-question-about-cleaning-vinegar.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/questions-answers/28543-there-any-bird-safe-home-cleaning-products.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/questions-answers/47988-white-distilled-vinegar.html
http://www.parrotforums.com/parrot-toys/47880-how-disinfect-toys-made-out-wood-rope.html
3. Appropriate Use of PPE Items.
Here is another area where it is important to stay aware of the latest input from civic and trusted media sources, since changes in construction and obtaining of PPE devices seems constant. In general, do try to have items clean and ready. If you must improvise with bandanas, scarves, or homemade items, be aware that they are not scientifically certified, and should still be augmented with social distance and clean surfaces/skin/etc.
Some Last Thoughts
Be prepared. Have a home emergency kit at the ready. Have all relevant phone numbers handy. Make sure the travel crate/cage is set to go.
Ths link is aimed at Amazons, but is applicable to any bird. Thanks, Sailboat!!
http://www.parrotforums.com/amazons/65119-i-love-amazons-going-journey-14.html#post645259
*********************************
*****************
******
Be prepared. Have a home emergency kit at the ready. Have all relevant phone numbers handy. Make sure the travel crate/cage is set to go.
Ths link is aimed at Amazons, but is applicable to any bird. Thanks, Sailboat!!
http://www.parrotforums.com/amazons/65119-i-love-amazons-going-journey-14.html#post645259
Keep us in mind, and let us know if you uncover any new ideas or resources concerning social distance, and/or safe cleaning, and/or use of PPE items. Good for all of us here, for being aware of these issues, and for reaching out and researching, and for caring about our Community. Let's stay responsive to changing circumstances and keep supporting one another!*********************************
*****************
******