
Last night I was out taking my dog for a walk. I live in a rather highly-populated area and frequently run into the same people. My dog got excited and pulled me to see his friend and their mom. Our short conversation quickly pivoted from the usual dog stuff to COVID-19. She seemed to want my opinion — so I gave it. I could tell it reassured her a little/ made her less nervous. That got me thinking — even if you are not usually an influential person, people are looking to each other for guidance at this time. We have a lot of information throw at us — today and everyday — and we look to each other for guidance on how to react or make decisions. The best thing you can do for your neighbors right now is put on a smiling face and be a positive source of human connection in their day. #coronavirus #stressed #positivity

To this point, sharing good sources of information with people we know will help us get through this. For example, I received a link these CDC FAQs about coronavirus and our pets, so they can stay healthy too! https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#animals

I am a retired Army medic of 29 years, people call and ask me all the time for my opinion and advice, I am happy to oblige, but I dont sugar coat anything, nor do I endorse panic or doom and gloom. The truth, follow the guidelines and words of encouragement and you will come out on top ! 😀