cOVID-19 FIRST TAKE

The Doctors and Staff of Redmond Veterinary Clinic are committed to the health and safety of our patients, our clients and our staff.  We will continue to Provide Uncompromised Care for you  and your pets as we walk through this together.  

​We will continue to offer regular office hours for your pet's care pending further government response.  In order to maintain social distancing we would kindly ask if we could perform the examination and procedures in our prep room while you and your family wait in the exam room or reception area.

In order to assist in the unfortunate event that you or a family member requires quarantine, we are offering Telemedicine Consultations in strict adherence to Oregon Guidelines as outlined below.  Please contact us at (541) 548-1048 and a receptionist will be happy to assist you in scheduling a Telemedicine Consultation.  If you have access to a smart phone with video conferencing (Skype, Facetime, What's App), please let us know as this may assist in the Consultation.  Telemedicine Consultations cost $66.  If the doctor determines, that in order to make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan, that a physical examination needs to be performed, then the fee will be applied toward  the normal examination fee of $82.50.  

Frequently Asked Questions
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no animals in the United States have been identified with the virus, and there is no evidence that dogs or other pets can contract or spread COVID-19. 

Should I be concerned about pets or other animals and COVID-19?
There is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it?s always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals.

Should I avoid contact with animals if I am sick with COVID-19?
You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.

What is the best way to protect myself and my family (human and pet) from the COVID-19 coronavirus?
Practical measures to protect yourself and your family from this or any other contagious respiratory illness include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Watch a video about the WHO's recommended handwashing technique.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick or have a fever.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Maintain more personal space between you and other people than you might usually (6 feet is recommended).
• Vaccinate your pets as recommended by your veterinarian.
• If you become ill with the COVID-19 coronavirus, please wear a well-fitted mask to help prevent the spread of the virus and limit contacts with other humans and your pets as recommended by your physician.

More information can be found at: https://www.oregonvma.org/care-health/zoonotic-diseases/coronavirus-faq

Veterinary Telemedicine (VTM)
VTM may be used when: 

• A physical examination of the patient has been conducted within the last year; and 
• If it is possible to make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan without a new physical exam. 
• Prescriptions may only be issued when VTM occurs if the veterinarian has evaluated the safety of doing so via VTM, and in compliance with all state and federal laws. 
• A veterinarian shall not substitute VTM for a physical exam when a physical exam is warranted or necessary for an accurate diagnosis of any medical condition or creation of an appropriate treatment plan.

Blessings,
Dr. Shawn Clark