COVID-19 Update
The MDVMA is monitoring the rapidly changing status of COVID-19. At this time, the AVMA is the most comprehensive resource for veterinarians. Please visit their website often as they frequently update information on:
- COVID-19 origin and spread
- COVIS-19 in human
- SARS-CoV-2 and domestic animals, including pets
- Keeping veterinary teams healthy
- Use telemedicine to help care for veterinary patients
- Potential supply chain impacts
- FAQs for veterinarians and veterinary clinics
- FAQs for pet owners
Members are calling us for practical advice on managing their clinics through this public health emergency. We have reached out to the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) for guidance on non-urgent appointments and elective surgeries. Currently, the MDH is advising veterinarians to follow AVMA recommendations. MDH has informed us that the Maryland Department of Agriculture is developing more specific guidance for Maryland veterinarians. Please check their website frequently for updated information. We will continue to update the MDVMA website and Facebook page as we receive new information. Below are resources and suggestions to ensure that your staff and clients stay as safe as possible.
- Seriously consider limiting patient care to acutely ill animals and emergencies.
- Limit contact with clients.
- Have clients call upon arrival then hospital staff can meet clients in the parking lot and bring animals in for care. (see how VMCVM and NC State Veterinary Hospital are doing this)
- Have clients wait in their cars until they can be directly taken into an exam room if car-side drop off and pick up is not possible.
- Staff can collect fecal samples and bring food and medications to clients in their cars.
- Take payment over the phone.
- Implement telemedicine services for those with a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship.
- Limit staff interactions with clients by assigning tasks like taking inventory, updating websites, creating client handouts, writing blogs, etc.
- Work to reschedule elective procedures, such as annual examinations, vaccinations, spays/neuters, and routine dentals.
- Be strategic in the use of personal protective equipment, including masks, gowns, and gloves.
Use the following websites for information specific to Maryland: