Bear Paw Veterinary lists procedures during pandemic

Havre Daily News staff

Bear Paw Veterinary Service has issued a list of procedures it is following, as an essential service exempted from shutdown during Gov. Steve Bullock’s stay-at-home directive, to practice safe social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As of March 28, 2020, we have adopted a strategy to provide the services and care that will help address this viral pandemic,” Dr. Paul McCann, DVM said in a statement listing the new procedures. “If there is confusion, please be patient and communicate with us … we can solve it.”

Under client management, the statement said procedures include:

• The goal is to safely help clients care for their animals.

• During the public isolation period, Bear Paw Veterinary Service will provide essential services with its regular schedule, with healthy staff.

• Reception and the technical team will try to facilitate the movement of public in the facility to minimize potential exposures.

• People are asked to please honor appointment times.

• The tech team will prepare for people’s visit and guide them.

• People who are at high risk should consider staying in their vehicle and use their telephone to check-in. They should let the receptionist know this at the time of scheduling their appointment.

• Telephone traffic has increased and will increase. People are asked to please leave contact information and a message if their call is handled by a recorder or voicemail.

Under services provided, the release said:

• Elective procedures will be future scheduled after the public isolation period.

• Exams and procedures that impact the health of animal and public will be offered. Telephone consultation can clarify situations.

• Bear Paw Veterinary Service’s food animal services and products are important to the health of the nation this time of year. These are offered as usual, the release said.

“Our patients are our priority, our clients are our partners in helping them,” McCann said in the release. “Patience, empathy and clear communication will provide the best care.”