When we think COVID-19 or coronavirus we tend to think of all the negatives that the global pandemic has brought to our lives. The lockdowns, the home schooling, the loss of jobs, the lack of sport, the loss of events, the list goes on.

Our doom and gloom has been a positive for our pets, it appears they have come in for some TLC while we are spending more time at home. They are loving the extra attention with many turning up at the local veterinary clinic for ailments that would have been missed during a normal busy lifestyle.

Daryl Deeley one of the vets at Keen Street Vets in Lismore, saying he can't put a single factor to why they have been busier across the Northern Rivers. "We feel there are quite a few more people at home during this COVID period," Daryl said, " They are noticing things about their pets they didn't before like skin allergies, ulcers or teeth problems."

"Issues that have been going on long term that they have become aware of now."

Pet ownership has also increased during COVID-19 so there a lot more de-sexing operations.

Simon Arnesen from VetLove Goonellabah said "the RSPCA have re-homed more pets during COVID. People who were talking about getting a pet were making the decision to actually get it done now".

Unfortunately, the trend of domestic violence has increased not only for people but also with pets with a slight increase in numbers.

Another reason for the increase in vet activity is thought to be the extra money flowing into people's pockets with JobKeeper and JobSeeker or through access to Super Funds.

"A pets skin condition that was a minor problem and deemed not necessary to treat before COVID is now at the vets getting treatment", Simon said.

At it's peak Keen Street Vet had 5-6 people waiting outside in their cars. The procedure was exactly the same as your local doctor, you were to ring the surgery when you arrived and a nurse would come and pick up your pet from your car, take it inside for treatment then return your pet once complete.

Daryl said "appointments were taking 30 minutes because we had to to thoroughly clean all the surfaces and equipment after every pet. This increased our workload hugely as well as increased the wait time by 15 minutes."

"We are so grateful for good staff and patient clients."

The rule today for Keen Street Vet and VetLove is for one person with their pet allowed in the premises at a time. This eases the workload somewhat.

Both practices have social distancing measures and hygiene measures in place.