In just a few short weeks, Covid-19 has changed the way the world works. Professional sports paused, schools have closed, and businesses have sent their workers home. Public safety has become the most important thing as no one has a natural immunity to this novel virus.
But, as people are home with their families and pets, many people worry about whether their pets can get or spread the virus. If you have questions about Covid-19 and your pet, it is best to talk to your veterinarian.
Researchers are still learning about Covid-19, but there are some facts that are understood:
1. The first infections are connected to live animals
Covid-19 is a respiratory virus that appears to have originated at a live animal market. It, like other novel viruses, made a jump from an animal to a human. Researchers have yet to know exactly what caused the virus, but this is their suspicion. SARS and MERS began in animals and moved to humans.
2. No evidence that animals products spread Covid-19
Even though the evidence points to the origin being an animal, there is not any evidence that the virus is spreading to other animals. Also, researchers have not found any evidence that the virus is carried in animals or animal products, even those that are imported. Researchers are studying the role of animals in the virus.
3. The risk to pets is still being studied
The risk to pets is unknown at this point, and researchers have more to learn about whether the Covid-19 virus affects different animals if it affects them at all. Researchers do not have any evidence about whether pets or other animals in the United States are a source of the virus.
4. How to protect yourself and your pets
It is important to remember that animals do carry germs, so it is important to be healthy around domesticated pets. Hand washing is an easy way to prevent the spread of germs, so you should wash your hands after touching animals. You should always clean up after your pets and be sure that you maintain good hygienic practices. You should also take your pets to the veterinarian, especially if you have questions about their health.
If you or anyone in your family becomes ill with the Covid-19 virus, you should quarantine yourself away from the rest of your family and your pets. No pets have become ill with the Covid-19 virus, but it is still best to keep the virus contained.
5. What if you are alone with your pet
If you cannot care for your pets while you are sick, you need to have someone you trust to take care of your pet. Even though you might want to snuggle with your pet, you should stay away from your pet until you are recovered. However, if you are the only person who can take care of your animals, you should always wash your hands before and after you feed them, touch them, or do anything else with them.
