Someone contacted me last Friday. She seemed to be under the impression that the moratorium on in-home "non-essential" services was lifted. I did some research and found updates for the state of Texas, Montgomery County and The Woodlands Township. It seems like Governor Abbott has plans to move forward, but it is unclear to me exactly what those plans are. Certainly, from what I read, retail stores will not be open for business any time soon. So, I looked a little closer to home and here is what I found:
"All Businesses in Montgomery County as defined by GA-14 and clarified by subsequent opinions of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, which have been deemed essential or nonessential, shall continue to follow all of the provisions of GA-14 and any future amendments or provisions of that order, or any provisions of subsequent Executive Orders issued by Texas Governor Greg Abbott." - Montgomery County Judge Keough
"At this point in time, no estimated timeline on when the phases will be implemented. As it currently stands, Montgomery County and Harris County are under a Stay-at-Home Orders until the end of April 30, 2020." - The Woodlands Township
Here in The Woodlands, the parks will reopen, but residents are required to wear masks and continue to social distance. In other words, you can go to the parks with your immediate family, but stay protected. Also, Montgomery County has lifted the curfew from midnight to 6:00a. So far, nothing else has changed.
I am cautiously optimistic that "nonessential" in-home services may resume by May 1st. When the moratorium is lifted, I will reach out to reschedule in-home pet grooming appointments, but not before. It is too early to tell exactly what will happen in the next 2 weeks.
This has been a really crazy time for all of us. Several of you have reached out to me concerned about your scruffy looking fur-kids. I miss seeing my little groomies, petting their heads and giving them treats for being so good. But, I think waiting another couple of weeks for in-home doggy and kitty haircuts is going to be okay and is the most appropriate course of action. Your patience and understanding is deeply appreciated.
Pet supplies, however, are ESSENTIAL, so we will continue delivering locally and shipping all over the world. I want to thank the pet parents that have kept us busy filling orders for kibble, canned foods, treats, toys, shampoos, hygiene solutions and supplements. I can never thank you all enough. Also appreciated are the really positive and encouraging texts and e-mails. You folks are pure sunshine. Challenges seem to bring out the best in the very best people. So, thanks for the proverbial lemonade! We are all in this together!
And, finally, I want to thank the people that have already submitted profiles of their fur-families and nominated pet charities for our new PPD Newsletter features. I can't think of a better way to stay connected with other pet parents as we all shelter-in-place. Pets are what we're all about, so let's celebrate the joy they bring to our lives.
Much Love and Plenty of Hugs!
Sandy Stutz
PetProductDelivery.com