It has been a life-changing week in northern Minnesota. Less than a month ago, COVID-19 was thought to be a disease in countries on the other side of the world. We were warned, but didn’t really believe, that it would make its way to the United States. Suddenly it’s here and our lives have changed dramatically overnight — schools and restaurants are closed, events are canceled, and everyone is urged to keep a 6-foot social distance from each other.

Many are wondering what this means for their four-legged companions. At this time, we don’t know exactly how our pets will be affected....