SPCA urges people to have a pet plan in case they catch COVID-19 and have to quarantine

Lockdown has given many of us more time with our pets but that time could be cut short if you test positive for COVID-19.

The SPCA is urging people to have a plan for their furry friends if owners have to quarantine.

They're also reminding potential pet owners not to rush into adoption if they won't be able to look after the animal post-lockdown.

Wellington cat Oskar loves having her family home in alert level 4 - she even tunes into the daily 1pm updates too.

Pippa the dog, on the other hand, is still on the hunt for a home. It's been made difficult as lockdown prevents the SPCA adopting animals out, instead it's managing capacity by working with its existing foster network.

But those restrictions are prompting some people to ask if they can borrow a dog or cat for lockdown. 

Problem is they want to give them back straight after - it was a massive problem for rescuers last year.

Amanda Fraser-Jones from Chained Dog Rehabilitation & Rehoming is urging people to think critically.

"If you want to get a pet, think about their life, think about them being with you for 10-15 years and think about what that looks like."

Full-time pet owners are also being urged to think about an animal plan in case they catch COVID and must quarantine.

The SPCA says they should make sure they have instructions for the care of their pet as well as food, medication, and supplies.

Where possible, owners should identify someone who could provide care.

And for close contacts isolating at home, there are some tricks to keep your animals moving - things like tug of war, fetch or hiding treats around the house to keep animals engaged. 

And, if you do see a cute dog the next time you're out for a walk, Professor Michael Baker says you should treat them "like people".

"Keep your distance - that's simply because if you are infected and infectious you can infect pets and animals generally in the same way you can infect people."

The message is the same for our four-legged friends stick to your bubble.