As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation continues to evolve and business impacts are becoming more far reaching across every sector, I wanted to share what we are doing at Zoetis to ensure the continuity in our support of you and the animals in your care. I know this is a rapidly changing situation which is causing stress on all businesses and families, but I assure you we are committed to our mission and to you. Here’s where we are today, and as the situation changes, I will provide additional updates.
Supply and Service
We understand that vaccines, medicines and other products are essential to the health of animals and that timely delivery is critical. To date, our supply levels are strong, and we continue to proactively monitor them with our distributors. To ensure the ongoing integrity of supply and the health of our colleagues, we have staggered work schedules in our manufacturing facilities and asked non-essential colleagues to work from home to limit exposure for those who we rely on to make and distribute our products. We have contingency plans across our deep distribution network to ensure delivery of our vital products and services. Our customer service and product support teams are ready to serve you as we enabled remote working arrangements where advised by local authorities to protect colleague health and ensure business continuity.
Our field force representatives are ready to help to ensure the continuity of support for your business and operations, as well as the animals in your care. In areas where local governments are advising social distancing, we have recommended routine contacts be conducted through video conference and phone for the safety of all. If you have a need for an in-person visit from one of our field force representatives, please be assured that our employees are following the health and hygiene guidance from the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Any Zoetis colleague who has had exposure to someone with COVID-19 will continue to observe the recommended 14-day self-isolation period before engaging with any customers or colleagues.
Monitoring Health of Animals and COVID-19
In addition to prioritizing the safety of customers and colleagues, we are also monitoring the potential impact of this novel coronavirus on pets and food-producing animals. We know from the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, there is no evidence that companion animals or pets such as cats and dogs can spread the virus that causes COVID-19. Through the Zoetis Center for Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, our infectious disease scientists are evaluating technical reports to monitor any changes in impact to livestock and pets.
Our Representatives and Colleagues
Since the outbreak began in early January, we have maintained a coordinated response across our global business to prioritize the safety of our colleagues, the service of our customers, and the quality and supply of our products. Caring for our colleagues is our top priority because we know they make all the difference to you. We are here as always to listen to you, anticipate your most pressing needs, and respond to your requests. We are committed to being here to support you and the health of the animals in your care.
If you work with a Zoetis representative, please reach out to him or her as your first point of contact, should you have any questions or areas where we can help.
Thank you for your valued support. We hope that you, your families and employees stay safe and well.
Sincerely,
Kristin Peck CEO, Zoetis