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Online Ordering For Your Pet Now Available

23/3/2020

Updated 23/3/2020

With outbreaks of Coronavirus occurring at various parts of Australia, Northern Territory Veterinary Services at our two venues, Katherine Veterinary Clinic & Alice Veterinary Centre is closely monitoring the situation in regard to COVID-19 with the various strains.

During lockdowns, as essential services, we are still operating and remain open. We remain vigilant following the advice of the Australian Department of Health and the NT Department of health and will act immediately in accordance with their recommendations. One big concern is ensuring that pets that need their medications or specified diets will continue to be able to access them.

Pet Foods and Repeat Medication

For clients needing food or repeat medications, we have created a new online ordering portal on our website to assist with filling these orders as well as to help with social distancing. This can be seen at https://www.ntvet.com.au/katherine-veterinary-clinic.html or https://www.ntvet.com.au/alice-veterinary-centre.html. We recommend using this portal, alternatively you can phone us in Katherine on 08 8972 3599 or in Alice Springs on 08 8952 4353, or email us at [email protected]. Payment can also be made online.

Delivery Services

Over the next few months, Northern Territory Veterinary Services will also be introducing a home delivery service for medications and food. This will be at a cost of $10 for deliveries within the town limits and $15 for deliveries to Tindal or the Ilparpa region. Pre-payment is required and goods will be delivered to your front door or gate to reduce contact between people. If you have a special drop off point, please advise staff where you would like the deliveries placed.

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Coronavirus and Your Pet

16/3/2020

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updated 16/3/2020

Advice from the Australian Veterinary Association 16/3/2020

What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that infect birds and mammals, including humans. They are often associated with the common cold, bronchitis and pneumonia, and can also affect the gut. The virus that causes COVID-19 is also a coronavirus and likely originated from a wildlife reservoir.

Canine coronavirus, which can cause diarrhoea, and feline coronavirus, which can cause feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), have been seen by veterinarians for many years. They do not cause infections in humans. These coronaviruses are not associated with the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Can COVID-19 infect pets?

There have been reports from Hong Kong that a dog owned by a patient with COVID-19 has tested positive to the presence of the virus in its nose and mouth. This is may be a case of human to animal transmission, however the dog’s first blood tests have been negative. At this stage there is no evidence that pet dogs or cats are a source of infection to other animals or humans. We are continuing to monitor this situation and will provide updated information as it becomes available.

Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick with COVID-19?

As the outbreak continues, a number of pet owners will be placed in quarantine, either with confirmed COVID-19 infection or due to exposure. We know that your pet is part of your family and you will want them to have the same level of protection and care as any other family member. Current information suggests there is no apparent risk to you or your pet from being in quarantine with you.

However, we do advise all pet owners continue to practice appropriate hand hygiene before and after handling their pet, their food and washing food/water bowls. At no stage should pet owners do anything that may compromise the welfare of their pets. We suggest minimising close contact with your pet during this time, such as hugging, face to face contact or sleeping on your bed.

What do I do if I am in quarantine or self-isolation and my pet is unwell?

If you are in quarantine, do not break quarantine to take your pet to the veterinarian even if your pet is unwell. By doing this you will put your veterinarian and staff at risk of infection. Ring your veterinary surgery first and ask for advice.

If your pet needs to be seen, your veterinarian will be able to work with you to ensure your pet will receive the care they need, while keeping themselves and their staff safe from COVID-19 infection. If your vet provides house calls, please let them know you are under quarantine before they arrive.

If you have any other concerns about your pet, please ask your veterinarian.

Note that this is a rapidly evolving situation and advice provided here is reflective of the evidence at hand. For up to date information on the COVID-19 situation in Australia go to health.gov.au

For a printable PDF, click here

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Online Ordering For Your Pet Now Available

Pet Foods and Repeat Medication

Delivery Services

Coronavirus and Your Pet

NT Vet Services News

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