We are happy to announce that Dr. Rosely is healthy and symptom-free and that none of the other members of our team have had flu-like symptoms. Earlier this month, Dr. Rosely experienced symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and, as a precaution, she decided to self-isolate for 14 days. We also asked all the staff who had close contact with Dr. Rosely to self-isolate as an additional protective measure. Although Dr. Rosely did not qualify for testing, we have been assured by Public Health Ontario that it is now safe for her and the rest of our team to return to work. We will be returning to our regular hours at Avonlea Animal Hospital and Hollybank Animal Hospital, on Wednesday, April 15th, 2020.
On April 3rd, the province of Ontario amended the list of essential workplaces that can remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of those amendments indicates that veterinary practices should be providing urgent care only. This was a measure which we had already enacted at our clinics. As restrictions in elective or non-essential services are put in place, either voluntarily or through government or regulatory body mandates, careful consideration of what is considered essential is needed. There is no standard list of elective/essential procedures. Essential procedures include those required to alleviate animal pain and suffering, to prevent the imminent threat of death of the animal, and matters pertaining to public health (e.g. vaccination against rabies). We continue to remain open to provide these services.
Our top priority continues to be providing exceptional care to our patients while safeguarding our staff and our community. Please see our web site for our current COVID-19 protocols and procedures:
We will be resuming our Annual Health Assessment appointment calls for appointments to be booked in May. We are approximately three weeks behind our normal process and we are expecting to be very busy in the coming months. Please take the time to book an appointment at your earliest convenience to ensure that we can continue your pet’s health care program in an effective and timely manner.
We are excited to announce that we are also now offering TELEHEALTH SERVICE for those who are unable to make it to the hospital or have a pet that is experiencing non-life-threatening or non-urgent symptoms or concerns. Our telehealth service offers the opportunity to speak with a veterinarian over the phone or by video call.
Our goal is to keep our essential services available to the communities we serve and to be there for you and your pets. Thank you for your cooperation and for doing your part in helping to keep pets and people safe. Please do not hesitate to call with questions. We anticipate our phone lines will be busier than usual and we thank you in advance for your patience!
Sincerely,
Don Cocca
Hospital Administrator