BRHS COVID-19 Closure Update

Blue Ridge Humane Society will be reducing public access hours and suspending all outreach and community programs starting on Monday, March 16, 2020. The reduction will be in effect through March 31, 2020. The reduced hours and services will continue with daily evaluation by the Blue Ridge Humane Society’s (BRHS) Incident Response Team.

“We are committed to providing the highest levels of care and protection that the animals in our trust deserve,” said Executive Director Angela Prodrick. “We also want to do everything we can to keep our staff and volunteers healthy and reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 as much as possible. The Adoption Center staff are dedicated to ensuring all the animals in our care, whether at our facility or in foster homes, are provided for.” BRHS has prepared for the reduction in services by working closely with Henderson County Animal Services, moving custodial animals to foster homes and ensuring that animals at the Adoption Center will continue to have their needs met by animal care staff on site.

The Adoption Center will be open by appointment only to limit the risk of exposure to the public and staff. Potential adopters can complete an adoption application online, and staff will then contact potential adopters to conduct an over-the-phone advising session and to schedule a meeting. All potential adopters will be asked not to come to the Adoption Center if they have experienced any coronavirus symptoms and will be asked to adhere to best hygiene practices.

The Blue Ridge Humane Society Thrift Store will not take donations during this time and will be closed through March 31,^, 2020.

Programs, events, and services will be suspended temporarily, and will be rescheduled for later dates. Events and programs include the Cause for Paws Luncheon, BARK Ranger program, volunteer shifts, community and school outreach programs, Vaccine Clinics, the Spay Neuter Incentive Program (SNIP), adoption events, training classes, and fundraising events. BRHS has also taken steps to ensure that recipients of the Meals on Wheels Pet Pals services and local food banks have received additional pet food for their clients in need. Additional preventive steps and postponements may take place as needed.

There is no evidence that companion animals such as cats and dogs can be infected with or spread SARS-Cov-2, the virus that carries COVID-19. The implementation of precautionary measures does not mean that the Adoption Center animals or personal pets are in danger of either contracting or transmitting this infection. Veterinary officials worldwide are in agreement that there is no evidence that dogs or cats can become ill from this strain or serve as carriers of the infection.

BRHS asks that the public monitor its website, www.blueridgehumane.org, and their social media channels for regular updates, as the reduction in services is subject to change based on guidance received from local and national public health officials.

With a potential decrease in staff due to risk of exposure, a probable increase in animals entering shelters, and reduction in income, Blue Ridge Humane asks for the community’s help in the following areas:

• Foster homes needed: We are seeking foster families who are willing to house animals during a time when our Adoption Center might not be fully staffed to do so. Please consider opening your heart and home to a homeless during this pandemic. We provide food, supplies, and medical care. You provide your lifesaving home and love. Social distancing doesn’t exist when you’re spending your time with a pet in need! Contact foster@blueridgehumane.org for more information.
• Supplies needed: When shopping for supplies, consider adding an extra bag of pet food, a bottle of hand sanitizer, or a package of paper towels for our Adoption Center to your Amazon order. We need them daily to function and are feeling the effects of the surge in their demand. You purchase items from our Amazon Wish List or send a gift card!
• Adopt: Help us clear our Adoption Center. We currently have amazing pets in our care looking for a home. If you’ve considered adding a four-legged member to your family, now is a great time!
• Donate: As our revenue stream is limited during this time, consider a monetary donation to help ensure the continuation of animal care of Blue Ridge Humane now only now but in the future.

For more tips on preventing the spread of COVID-19 and preparing a care plan for your pet read our Emergency Plan Preparedness post.