Page 5 - DC CCN Newsletter

WE ARE HERE: CCN’S EMERGENCY HOTLINE & TEXT/CHATLINE AVAILABLE
With many businesses closing in response to COVID-19, Crisis Center North’s essential, lifesaving services remain open. In such uncertain stressful times, survivors are finding it harder to navigate their safety plans while co-quarantined with their abuser. A month ago, a survivor may have been able to call CCN’s 24-hour hotline while their abuser was at work. Today, survivors have fewer opportunities to make private phone calls where their abuser will not overhear them. Survivors are searching for ways to talk with someone or find resources as safely as
possible, and CCN’s hotline (available 24/7) and text chat line (available Monday-Friday 9a – 5p) are a lifesaving resource for them.
Unfortunately, cases of domestic violence tend to rise during times of stress. Specifically with COVID-19, CCN is seeing that survivors are unable to safely plan for private conversations and that abusers are limiting survivors’ free time and contact with the outside world. The text chat line offers an interface to connect with survivors trapped in the same room with their abusers, unable to speak. It gives survivors the chance to use
their voice in silence. The hotline also restores survivors’ voices – it gives them the option to create their own plan and the support needed to take action. They are handed the opportunities to change their life into something that they envisioned.
CCN staff and volunteers remain dedicated to providing options and supporting decisions in the safest way possible for survivors. Help CCN spread the word – make sure your loved ones know how to access help.
PO Box 101093 24/7 Hotline | 412-364-5556 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Toll Free | 1-866-782-0911
Text | 412-444-7660
Chat | CrisisCenterNorth.org
CrisisCenterNorth.org
The Northern
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Office | 412-364-6728 Fax | 412-364-5787
ANIMAL SAFETY DURING COVID-19
As we are aware, the COVID-19 epidemic is affecting all of us in many ways. People have been impacted in their health, finances, and the overall sense of stability and society. It is a very difficult time for everyone, and that includes our beloved pets and working animals.
It has been reported that a tiger recently contracted COVID-19, presumably from a caretaker who was working with it in the Bronx Zoo. The source of this disease is suspected to be the pangolin, a small mammal that resembles an anteater or armadillo, yet is most closely related to cats. Therefore, it is not surprising that felines may be more susceptible to this strain of coronavirus. As of now, there is no evidence that dogs are susceptible.
In light of this, it is recommended that pet owners who are ill maintain social distancing from their animals as well, especially during the course of their treatment. Cats may be more susceptible than dogs, since this particular coronavirus is similar to one that affects cats. The good news is that animals that have shown positive tests or symptoms of the disease have milder symptoms that are generally not requiring treatment. Pet owners should not allow strangers or non-household members to interact with their pets. Not only is there a chance that animals can contract coronavirus, but the disease can live on their fur for hours, which would put anyone else who had contact with them at risk.
Veterinarians for their part have been working through this quarantine, as they are considered essential workers. Any of us who have experienced a pet emergency knows how true that is! Most veterinary offices have cancelled all routine procedures including vaccines, and are only treating emergencies. This allows them to keep a minimal number of staff on hand at any given time. If you have a pet emergency, please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian, or another local office. Although you may not be able to accompany your pet into the office, rest assured that the professionals are taking the best care possible of your pet in these trying times. If you are struggling economically to acquire food or veterinary care for your pet, please call our hotline at 412-364-5556. We will do everything possible to assist you.
The PAWS FOR EMPOWERMENT team is working diligently to help our clients through this time of uncertainty. Although we are unable to allow our working animals to have direct contact with our clients, we are making efforts to allow our clients to interact and view Penny, Ari, and Thea remotely! This may include photos, short videos, and other therapeutic-related activities to engage with them. We appreciate everyone’s care and concern about our beloved canine/ feline advocates, and look forward to getting them back into the Center soon! They miss all of you very much!