To the editor:

A message to our valued community:

The Tri-Lakes Humane Society is closely monitoring the status of the COVID-19 pandemic. We know that, like us, our community is always concerned about the welfare of pets and people. It is important to know what’s happening and to ensure everyone’s health and safety.

The situation continues to evolve, and we are responding to these changes in an effort to effectively keep our staff, animals and community safe. We are exercising caution in accordance with CDC (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and other esteemed professionals, both in the human and animal health fields. Please bear with us as we continue to adapt to the situation.

In this uncertain time, we know that many people may be worried about the well-being of their family, friends, neighbors and the pets they love. Tri-Lakes Humane Society is here to offer help and assistance to our community as we all navigate the situation.

What you can do to help keep yourself and your personal pets safe:

¯ Prepare a one-month supply of your pets’ medications, litter and food, along with up-to-date copies of your pets’ vaccination records.

¯ Create an emergency plan for your pets that includes outlining their needs. Reach out to friends, family and neighbors to ensure someone is able to care for your pet(s) if you should be unable to do so yourself.

¯ Avoid crowded dog areas, veterinary offices and trails, and be sure to bathe your pet after exposure to those environments.

¯ Wash pet bedding, leashes/collars, dishes and toys as you do other surfaces at home.

¯ Refer to additional resources: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/emergencies/pet-disaster-prep-kit.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=luminate.

What you can do to help Tri-Lakes Humane Society and your community:

¯ Foster or adopt a pet to help ease the burden on the shelter, as we have had to close our doors to visitors and volunteers.

¯ If you have neighbors who are self-quarantined or otherwise in need of help, offer to feed/water their pets, walk their dog or take pets for routine visits. (Be sure to follow the CDC’s guidance on interacting with quarantined individuals.)

¯ Consider checking in with neighbors and relatives to see if they need help getting pet supplies, like food.

¯ Consider donating to Tri-Lakes Humane Society to ensure we can continue to provide quality care to pets in need.

Adopting from Tri-Lakes Humane Society: We are currently accepting adoption applications for our animals. Adoptions and meet-and-greets are being scheduled by appointment only. If you are interested in adopting, please call the shelter at 518-891-0017.

If you are aware of pets in need of assistance: Please call the Tri-Lakes Humane Society at 518-891-0017 for information and/or assistance. We will work to provide pets in our community with the solutions and care they need during this difficult time.

In this time of uncertainty, we are especially thankful for your support in our work. On behalf of the animals who rely on us, thank you.

With gratitude,

Carla M. Stroud

Shelter director

Tri-Lakes Humane Society

Saranac Lake