Can your dog or cat get or carry this novel coronavirus? If you're quarantined, can you still walk the dog?
Alexandria is one of the most dog- (and cat-) friendly communities in the country. With pet-friendly workplaces, special menus for dogs at a number of restaurants and the community's tendency to rally around animals, it's understandable that people are concerned about taking caring of their pets this spring.
Right now, there have not been any reports of animals becoming ill from this coronavirus, though there have been anecdotal reports of animals carrying coronavirus germs. The World Health Organization has determined that dogs do not have to be quarantined, leading to a slew of Internet memes saying we all now know "WHO let the dogs out."
Here's additional informations on dogs and coronavirus from My Pet Needs That.
In an abundance of caution, the American Veterinary Medical Association is recommending that if you are struck with COVID-19, try to stay away from your pet. If someone else can walk, feed and play with your pet, that may be the best, safest course of action. Otherwise, be sure to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially right before and right after interacting with your pet.
The following information was provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association:
Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals (other than source bats) becoming sick with COVID-19, out of an abundance of caution, it is recommended that those ill with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus.
If you are ill with COVID-19, be sure to tell your physician and public health official that you have a pet or other animal in your home. Have another member of your household take care of walking, feeding, and playing with your pet. Please follow the guidelines of self quarantine as directed by your local authorities and medical community if you are feeling feverish or ill.
If you have a service animal or you must care for your pet, then wear a face mask; don’t share food, kiss, or hug them; and wash your hands before and after any contact with your pet or service animal.You should not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people or pets in your home.
Additional guidance on managing pets in homes where people are sick with COVID-19 is available from the CDC.
For responsible pet owners, preparing in advance is key. Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared, with at least two weeks’ worth of your pet’s food and any needed medications. Usually we think about emergency kits like this in terms of what might be needed for an evacuation, but it’s also good to have one prepared in the case of quarantine or self-isolation when you cannot leave your home.
While we are recommending these as good practices, it is important to remember there is currently no evidence that pets can spread COVID-19 to other animals, including people.
