According to Australian independent non-profit mental health organisation Beyond Blue, there are many ways in which pets can positively impact your physical and mental wellbeing including:
- Being a non-judgmental support companion;
- Keeping you company;
- Encouraging you to be more active; and
- Taking care of a pet reminds you to take better care of yourself
PET ADOPTION
If you've decided to adopt a pet, call ahead to check that the shelter is open and to allow them time to arrange social-distancing measures.
Some shelters you might to consider for pet adoption include:
RSPCA Australia
Pet Rescue
Sydney Dogs & Cats Home
PET FOSTER CARE
If you're not able to commit to a pet long-term, you could also consider fostering a pet. The RSPCA is currently calling for foster carers to take on cats, dogs, chicks, ducklings, goats, lambs, litters of kittens and litters of puppies.
PETS AND COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS
Addressing concerns about whether pets may spread the disease, the RSCPA has said there is "currently no evidence companion animals can contract & spread COVID-19. There's a risk if you're infected with virus, it may be present on pet fur or skin & could be picked up by another person. Ensure anyone in contact with your pets practice good hygiene."
