According to Governor Brian Kemp’s staff, an executive order will be issued tomorrow (4/3/20) that is anticipated to include shelter-in-place requirements. Georgia pet owners are urged to contact the governor’s office today and politely request that veterinarians and pet food/care businesses be designated as essential businesses/services and allowed to continue to operate subject to safe distancing provisions.
Click here for contact information, then scroll down to an online form where you can submit your request. To expedite your message, select “COVID-19 Business Concerns” in the drop-down box.
Talking points:
- Many medical personnel, first responders, and employees in essential businesses are working long hours and cannot get home to care for their pets. In these challenging times, front-line and essential workers need continued access to pet boarding services.
- Pet supply stores provide specialty pet foods and supplies that are not available in grocery and general merchandise stores. They are often the only source for foods and necessary care supplies for less common pets.
- Veterinarians provide emergency and necessary care to pets and livestock animals.
AKC GR Is Your Advocate:
Last month, the American Kennel Club (AKC) urged government officials to allow pet food and service suppliers to remain open during the COVID -19 crisis. AKC GR also encouraged dog owners to ask their elected officials to declare pet services as essential businesses.
You can stay up-to-date on state exemptions protecting pet care, supplies, and services during the shutdown. This web page will be updated with information about Georgia after the executive order is issued. You can also view the status of legislatures impacted by COVID-19.
If you wish to communicate with your federal and state legislators about these and other issues, visit the AKC Legislative Action Center and scroll down to “Find Your Elected Officials.” Information about legislative and regulatory issues, AKC legislative alerts, and constituent tools are available at www.akcgr.org and www.akc.org/government-relations.
For additional information, please contact doglaw@akc.org or 919-816-3720. AKC GR staff are currently working from home to serve you; therefore, email is the best way to reach us at this time.