Tips for Safely Sheltering at Home with Pets | State Farm

The coronavirus pandemic has introduced a good deal of uncertainty into our lives, as well as our pets. As people shelter at home, adopt new pets or foster dogs for sick family and friends, now is the time to reinforce safety and responsible pet ownership.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week (NDBPW) is April 12-18, 2020. As a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition, State Farm joins the theAmerican Veterinary Medical Association(AVMA),Insurance Information Institute(I.I.I.),American Humane, and the dog behavior expert Victoria Stilwell to draw attention to how people can reduce the number of dog bites.

Last year, State Farm alone paid $146 million dollars for 3,340 dog bite and injury claims. Many of these incidents could have been prevented.

According to Stilwell, the coronavirus pandemic has affected pets too.

Dogs that are used to kids being at school and adults at work are now finding themselves surrounded by their families 24/7, says Stilwell. Most welcome the company, but some dogs are having a hard time adjusting to the constant noise, attention and lack of space.

Stress can affect pets and cause them to feel anxiety. In some cases, dogs will exhibit anxious behaviors like barking, aggressiveor destructive behavior.

Here are some tips to help you and your pets cope while sheltering at home.

State Farm is one of the few insurance companies that does not have a breed restriction list. The company does not exclude homeowner or renter insurance coverage because of the breed of dog owned. State Farm joined forces with the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behaviorto create thefree online course Being Good Pet Neighbor. Iteducates owners about being responsible with pets.

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Tips for Safely Sheltering at Home with Pets | State Farm