The Pet Industry Federation (PIF) today said it has received a number of queries from pet industry businesses seeking clarity on whether their business can still operate during this time of lockdown to stem the tide of the coronavirus outbreak.

Guidance published last night on www.gov.uk confirmed that pet retailers would be exempted from closure during this lockdown.

In a statement, the POF said: “However, it is clear that the Government’s rationale behind their decision to close a range of businesses and shops last night is to curb the movement of people and, as far as possible, ensure that people remain at home to slow the transmission of the disease.

“Therefore, until we obtain specific information to the contrary, PIF believes that unless exempted, businesses should close in order to keep themselves and their customers safe from the Covid-19 virus.”

The organisation said it is also seeking clarity from the devolved governments on their positions with regard to businesses and service provision from pet professionals during lockdown.

PIF said it has put a range of measures in place for its members and will continue to liaise with and support members with as much information and guidance as it can during this time.

The PIF said it will post any information and advice on the Pet Industry Federation Facebook page.