Friends when you need ’em: Pets can help their owners deal with COVID-19 concerns
The staff at Darland Pet Clinic understands how comforting pets can be in a time of stress and uncertainty.
“Pets are an important part of people’s ability to cope with all this,” said Becky Cannon, practice manager. “They’ve always been important, but especially so now.”
Cannon said the clinic, 2381 Hwy. 67, south of Festus, has been busy lately.
“People are spending more time at home with pets, and they’re paying more attention to issues (pets) might have,” she said.
Veterinarians Dr. Stacy Buchheit and Dr. Rebecca Darland and their staff of eight treat cats, dogs and horses, offering well care, spay/neuter services, vaccinations, diagnostics and end-of-life care.
They also are equipped to perform surgery and dental care, as well as laser therapy.
The coronavirus pandemic has brought several changes to the business.
“The hours are different,” Cannon said. “We’re here 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 to noon on Saturdays.”
Another big change is in staff scheduling.
“We have split the staff,” Cannon said. “Each doctor has a dedicated staff that works together as a team. That way, there’s a lot less chance of transmitting the virus.”
Cannon said staff and clients alike are following strict safety protocols.
“What we’re doing is curbside,” she said. “When a client arrives for an appointment, they call us from the car and we go out and get the pet in a carrier or on a leash.
“Or, Dr. Darland has a little exam table outside, where she can do a well exam or something like that with the client and pet. Of course, we ask that the client wear a mask.
“We remind the staff daily about social distancing and hand washing. We’re doing everything we can to keep clients and staff safe.”
For more information, visit darlandpetclinic.com or go to the company’s Facebook page.