FHS continues to review and adjust our policies and procedures as Phase 3 COVID-19 restrictions are in effect in North Carolina. We have adjusted our operations to ensure we are in compliance with the new order and we continue to provide a safe environment for our staff, guests and pets. Please read below for important information.
Our Country Club location remains temporarily closed to the public. FHS will continue to operate on an appointment only basis from our University North location. Our University North Campus is located at 5570 Sturmer Park Circle in Winston-Salem, NC 27105.
Appointments are required for all services. Please call (336) 955-1750, or email us at info@forsythhumane.org, between 10:00am – 1:00pm & 2:00pm – 6:30pm, Monday through Saturday, to make an appointment.
Appointments are scheduled in 1-hour increments to ensure we are able to answer all questions and provide appropriate animal care. In addition, masks or face coverings are required apparel for all visitors and staff.
We are offering Meet and Greets for our adoptable animals! We can set up a virtual meet and greet for some adoptable pets. We are also allowing in-person meet and greets for dogs in our outside play lots by appointment only. Please note, if you wish to adopt an animal, we are only accepting debit and credit card payments at this time.
Important note on Pet Surrender. Due to COVID-19, FHS is currently operating with reduced staff and space. Right now, adoptions are down because people are avoiding being in public. In addition, most of our intake comes from owner surrenders. Those two things combined would mean a whole lot of pets coming in, but not going out into loving homes. We are trying our best to avoid overcrowding and we need to maintain space for the pets that truly need us. If possible, we ask you to delay surrendering your animal. Please read more here.
COVID-19 Information for Pet Owners
We hope you, your family and your pets are well during this difficult time for our community. Like you, Forsyth Humane Society is adapting and stretching during the COVID-19 crisis in order to best take care of our shelter pets. Please read below for helpful information on several topics.
Pet owners, please keep the following CDC information in mind if you become ill with COVID-19. Your pets will do best at home – with precautions.
According to the CDC’s website: There is no evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 to people or that they might be a source of infection to people in the United States. We do know that people sick with COVID-19 can transmit the virus to cats.
- When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick.
- Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food.
- If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
- If you cannot leave your home and need veterinary care for your cat or dog, Best Friends is offering temporary, free alternatives.
Prepare a COVID-19 emergency plan for your pet now.
Pets are our family and in this challenging time we urge pet parents to include their pets in their emergency preparedness measures. Putting together an emergency plan can be daunting, so we hope the useful steps below can ease this process for you. It’s important to have a plan for your pet’s care if you become ill and can no longer care for your pup or kitty.
- Know the facts. There is no evidence that humans can get COVID-19 from their pets. The best place for your animal is inside the home they know. If you become ill but are still able to care for your pet, please stay at home, and keep your pet at home with you.
- Identify two people who can care for your pet if you become hospitalized. Reach out now to your neighbors, friends, coworkers, or family who can temporarily take your pet in. If you are able, consider a boarding facility for your pet. Make sure to speak directly to your two support contacts so they know to be prepared in case of emergency.
- Check now to make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date.
- Prepare and pack a preparedness kit for your furry friend today. The goal is to be able to seamlessly transfer the care of your animal to your support contact if needed. Your preparedness kit should include documents and supplies:
- Documents. In a sealable plastic bag, include the following: name and contact information of your two support contacts, your pet’s vaccination records, name and contact information of your vet or animal clinic, pictures of your pet (proof of ownership), medication with instructions and daily pet care instructions
- Supplies.
- At least two weeks of food and, if needed, current medicine
- A collar with identification tags and leash for dogs
- Cat litter, scoop and a cat litter box for cats
- A crate or carrier to transport your pet
- Toys, treats, grooming items, blankets and a bed
Additional Information Sources:
