There are no words to describe how we are all feeling from the effects the COVID-19 virus places on all our lives all over the globe. During these tough and uncertain times, while our freedoms are restrained and restricted, our pets no doubt love the quality time we now are having with them.
While it is a known fact that pets contribute to our overall happiness and well-being and especially so in times of stress, I have on my daily walks resisted the temptation to pet my friend’s or neighbour’s dog. Since it is conceivable that the virus could linger on a dog or cats fur, it is good practice to just stick to petting your own pet(s). There is no need to take any risks for yourself or another’s health.
Because the COVID-19 virus is only 12 weeks old, there is conflicting information about pets and COVID-19. Although there is “no evidence” at this time that cats or dogs or livestock can contract this particular virus and/or transmit it to you, information can be found indicating that a dog was reported to have tested positive for the virus in Hong Kong, China (as it was living with its owner whom had contracted the virus, however, the dog did not show any signs of the illness).
So, during this pandemic, if you do have a pet, please keep what little known information we have researched:
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 or suspect that you may be positive and it remains unclear whether or not a pet can contract the virus or be able to transmit it, as a precautionary measure:
- Quarantine yourself at home for 14 days.
- If possible, have another member of your household be the primary caregiver for your pet(s).
- Limit contact with your pet as much as possible.
- Do not sneeze or cough on them.
- Wash your hands before and after you pet them and before and after touching their food, toys and supplies.
- If your pet becomes sick or experiences an emergency that requires a visit to the veterinarian and no one else can take them to the vet or animal hospital, please inform the vet of the situation so that they can take the proper precautions.
- Give your pet(s) a bath when you no longer experience any symptoms of the virus.
If you are feeling well with no symptoms of COVID-19, as a precautionary measure:
- Stay home as much as you can, only going out for necessities, food, medication (these can also be delivered to your home) and for walks/exercise.
- Stay at least 2 meters from each other when outside walking with your pet. This
includes limiting contact with other pets and do not pet another person’s dog or let someone else pet your dog. - Have enough pet food, supplements/medications and any other pet care products in supply at home to last your pet for at least two weeks.
- Find ways to combat your pet’s boredom while indoors with indoor pet games (i.e. blowing bubbles, hide and seek treat games, puzzle toys or create an indoor agility course).
- Give your pet a bath if you suspect they may have come into contact with a person with symptoms of the virus.
As we go into each day not knowing when this virus will be controlled, contained or eradicated, let us go into April (Pet Appreciation Month) staying focused on the facts we do know.
Let us keep each other in our thoughts and wishes to stay well and healthy during this pandemic. Let us keep in mind that we still have each other to count on for getting us through these tough times. We have this wonderful planet to live our lives on and we will do whatever measures it takes to keep these blessings.
**Please note that this information is from differing sources of known information about the COVID-19 Virus as of March 30,2020 and can change at any time in the future.
