COVID-19 has completely disrupted our lives. Interestingly when we started planning this issue it wasn’t even in our thoughts or on the list as a possible article. Now it has become a topic of concern for all of us. As pet owners we have additional concerns about how the coronavirus affects our pets. How can we protect them? The following is a brief summary of COVID-19 as it pertains to pets. News about COVID-19 changes quickly and is updated daily. Often articles or emails start with the words “This is what we know at this time” as a reference point.
One major concern that people have is whether the coronavirus COVID-19 can be transmitted from pets to humans. The Agriculture Department and the Centers for Disease Control state that there is no evidence that pets play a role in spreading the virus.
Another concern is about our pets… can they get COVID-19? Just this past week two cats in NYC tested positive for it. Their symptoms were mild. Studies suggest that some pets, particularly cats, hamsters and ferrets might develop mild symptoms if exposed to a person with COVID-19. However, since so much is unknown about this virus the recommendation is to take the same precautions to protect our pets as we do for ourselves.
For now, social distancing is recommended for pets also. The C.D.C recommends the following:
- Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would around other people. When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick. Avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
Stay Safe – Keep Your Pets Safe!
For more information ➠ ARTICLES:
www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s0422-covid-19-cats-NYC.html
www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/newsroom/news/sa_by_date/sa-2020/sars-cov-2-animals
www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/sars-cov-2-animals-including-pets
For more information ➠ ORGANIZATIONS:
Centers for Disease Control – www.cdc.gov
American Veterinarian Medical Association – www.avma.org
World Health Organization WHO – www.who.int
World Organization for Animal Health – www.oie.int/en
United States Dept of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service – www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/home