Coronavirus UPDATE [ 5/2/2020 ]

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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Coronavirus COVID-19

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May 2, 2020

Discover why flea markets may not be the best environment for service dogs.

Learn about risks, distractions, and considerations for handlers.

1. Crowded Environment: Flea markets are often bustling with crowds, which can be overwhelming for a service dog. The dog may become stressed or anxious in such a busy atmosphere.

2. Distractions: Flea markets are filled with various sights, sounds, and smells that can distract a service dog from its duties. This could potentially compromise its ability to assist its handler effectively.

3. Unpredictable Behavior of Other Animals: Other visitors to the flea market may bring their pets along, which can lead to encounters with unfamiliar animals. This may pose a risk to the safety and focus of the service dog.

4. Risk of Injury: With so many people moving around and browsing items, there’s an increased risk of accidental tripping or stepping on the service dog, which could lead to injury.

5. Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Flea markets may not always maintain the cleanest environment, and the service dog may come into contact with unsanitary surfaces or substances.

6. Lack of Accommodation for the Dog: Flea markets may not be equipped to handle service dogs properly, such as providing suitable resting areas, water, or relief spots for the dog.

7. Potential Stress for the Dog: A flea market’s constant stimulation and unfamiliar surroundings could cause stress or discomfort for the service dog, which may affect its overall well-being and ability to perform its tasks.

Given these factors, it’s important for service dog handlers to carefully consider whether taking their dog to a flea market is truly necessary and in the best interest of the dog’s welfare and effectiveness in assisting its handler.

Monday, May 18th, 2020

Opening for CLASSES ONLY.

Infection Control Guidelines

To maintain compliance with State, local, and municipal guidelines in order to minimize exposure to COVID 19 and other pathogens for all participating Veterans, Staff, and Volunteers at K9P4P.

ALL PARTICIPANTS

K9Partners for Patriots Training Facility will be open to Participating Veterans Only during Class Hours: Monday through Thursday 10:00 a.m. to Class end. Current class participants only will be admitted to the training facility.

— DOORS WILL OPEN AT 9:50 am
— CLASS TO BEGIN PROMPTLY AT 10:00 am

Family members and guests must remain in cars, outside at appropriate social distance or off facility grounds.
Hand sanitize immediately upon entering the facility. (Sanitizer will be available at the door upon entering).
Face coverings are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.
No physical contact (i.e. hand shakes, hugging etc.)
Maintain Social Distance of 6 to 8 feet at all times while on facility grounds.

STAFF

All Staff members currently working from home will continue to do so until further notice.
Front Office Personnel will consist of Kellie Flaville and one office volunteer.
Trainers to maintain 6-8 feet of social distance at all times during class and will be present only during class hours. All other Trainer duties will be carried out from home.

VOLUNTEERS

One Office Volunteer to be present at the facility only during class time.
Disinfect all office surfaces before and after class.
Disinfect door handles to the entrance, bathroom, and training floor after each use whenever possible.
Disinfect all surfaces in bathrooms after each use.
Remind all who enter the facility to wash hands before entering the training floor and encourage Face Coverings.

PHYSICAL LAYOUT

Classes will be broken into two small groups and held at opposite ends of the training floor.
Refreshment Station, coffee, refrigerator will be closed.
Scenario Rooms will be closed.
All Veteran Seating will be spaced 6-8 feet apart.
Weather permitting all outside bay doors will be kept open to facilitate airflow.

NURSES

(i.e. Karen DeLoria M.S.N., Cynthia Dietrich R.N. Debbie Reed Montgomery R.N.)

Keep abreast of all CDC, Local, and State Health official’s guidelines and inform staff of changes.
Remain available in person or by phone for staff and volunteer consultation.