Supporting Pet Owning Residents in a Social Distancing Environment

Pet-owning apartment residents are lucky to have furry and loveable companions in the era of social distancing. These residents often experience less loneliness and have built-in ambition to get outside during the day—while exhibiting proper social distancing measures, of course.
These isolation buddies can bring much joy to pet owners, especially in times of crisis. Research indicates that the human-animal bond can decrease blood pressure, reduce anxiety and enhance feelings of well-being. Pet-owning residents have ample reason to be happy, and apartment managers should work closely with them to ensure appropriate protective hygiene and social distancing measures are maintained during COVID-19.
Property teams can engage in a few simple measures to help support pet owners in a social distancing environment.
1 – Keep in mind that pets should practice social distancing, too
By now, everyone is acutely aware of the need to wash and sanitize hands thoroughly and regularly, utilizing hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Examples include Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizing Gel, Pharma-C-Wipes (70% alcohol) and Highmark Advanced Sanitizer. Yet, some people might not think to have the same diligence after petting a dog or handling pet food as they would after going to the store or touching a door handle.
Make certain your entire staff knows to not touch residents’ pets, as pet owners should also help their pets practice social distancing. If team members do touch pets out of habit, they should avoid touching their face and wash their hands immediately. Pet-care providers should also be rem……