The Central Missouri Humane Society is launching a checklist of protocols to ensure the safety of staff and shelter pets in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our animals, staff, and the community,” says Executive Director, Julie Aber.  “As far as we know, pets cannot contract the COVID-19 virus.  The American Veterinary Medical Association indicates that there is no evidence to suggest that companion animals can be a source of infection or spread the virus to people.”

CMHS is using guidance and protocols for every area of the shelter.  The shelter is working to create proactive plans to continue to care for their animals and the animals in the community that may need assistance and resources.  Protocols are being created to support their foster and adoption programs and to address the issue of stray and lost pets.

In addition to the reduction of non-essential staff, all doors will be locked and CMHS will be limiting the admission of new animals into the facility.  As per usual, an appointment is required to surrender a pet.  If a stray animal is found, the finder is encouraged to call the shelter to make arrangements for drop off.  CMHS will continue to offer adoption services but in order to meet a pet you are interested in, you need to fill out the online adoption interest survey and list the pet you'd like to meet.

CMHS is requesting emergency foster homes that can take in and care for pets temporarily.  The shelter is asking foster parents to commit to caring for a foster pet for a minimum of two weeks.  The shelter will provide all the supplies needed to care for the pet, including food, bowls, blankets, toys, treats, medication, etc.  If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, please visit our website, cmhspets.org, for more information or email [email protected].

For more information, or to schedule an interview, please call 573.443.7387, ext. 203, or email [email protected].