Program offers boarding for care workers’ pets during coronavirus
A dog accomodation and training company has launched a subsidised initiative to help care for the pets of aged care and other health and medical workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A dog accomodation and training company has launched a subsidised initiative to help care for the pets of aged care and other health and medical workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Pets in Our Life Crisis Support Program is a not-for-profit community initiative run by pet accommodation and dog training business Hanrob Pet Hotels.
The program will provide overnight pet accommodation, pet transport for dogs and cats and virtual dog training sessions at a reduced rate to all aged care, healthcare and medical professionals.
The initiative targets staff with limited time to look after their pets during the coronavirus pandemic.
It is also open to all pet owners diagnosed with COVID-19.
The program is available at Hanrob Pet Hotels in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory.
Under the program, eligible pet owners can access daytime and overnight pet accommodation for dogs for $22 and $16 for cats.
Pet taxi services for home pick up and drop off within metropolitan areas is $20 and virtual dog training sessions are $28 per session.
Hanrob Pet Hotels Andrew Biggs said many medical professionals across the country were working longer hours and shifts to help those in need.
“We understand the increased anxiety and pressures regarding caring for animals in this difficult time, so we’ve launched this initiative to support the Australian community, and ensure the nation’s pets aren’t forgotten,” Mr Biggs said.
“There are also thousands of people whose quarantine or self-isolation status makes it hard for them to take good care of their pets or even walk their dogs because they are focusing on getting better or staying inside – we hope that the Pets in Our Life program brings a little relief,” he said.
Canberra Hospital Foundation CEO Helen Falla applauded the program.
“We’re delighted to see them now launch this initiative to support those impacted during the current pandemic, as well as our medical workers,” Ms Falla said.
Ms Falla said the Hanrob team has worked with the Canberra Hospital Foundation to support their patients and pets.
“One of many examples includes an elderly patient who found himself in hospital for an unexpectedly extended period.
“Hanrob continued to provide care and worked with the foundation to provide regular updates to our patient to let him know how his pet was doing.
“This was a huge reassurance for a patient whose pet was his only companion,” Ms Falla said.
“Hanrob’s kindness helped to alleviate any worry and stress about his pet and the patient was able to focus on his own recovery,” she said.
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