The recent coronavirus outbreak is on everybody’s mind these days. Although at this time no cases are known to be present on Vancouver Island, we need to ask ourselves if, in the future, we need to be worried as far as our pets are concerned.
Like the flu, COVID-19 is a viral infection. As of now, there is one report of a dog in Hong Kong testing positive for the virus. The dog is not showing symptoms, and further tests are underway to find out if the dog is truly infected with the virus. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is currently no evidence that pets could spread the virus or be a source of infection to people.
What can pet owners do to keep their pets safe from COVID-19?
• First of all, owners considering adopting a pet from abroad should hold off at this time. With any planned adoptions at this time, the origin of the pet should be thoroughly verified. It happened before that owners thought they were adopting a pet from Canada, only to find out after the fact that the pet actually originated from another continent, such as Asia or Europe.
• It is also important to follow good hygiene practices at all times, especially handwashing before and after interacting with pets.
• Make sure your pet does not have contact with people infected with COVID-19.
• Pets of infected people should be confined since at this time we do not know yet whether an infected, but seemingly healthy pet can spread the disease.
Should pets get tested for COVID-19?
• At this time, there is no indication that apparently healthy and non-exposed pets should get tested for the virus.
• The World Health Organization recommends that people who test positive for COVID-19 should be isolated from contact with other people and also pets.
What do I do if my pet starts showing flu-like symptoms?
• If your pet is showing signs of coughing, sneezing, or other flu-like symptoms, contact your veterinarian and keep your pet indoors and away from other pets. Keep it fully isolated from all other pets and people if there is a chance your pet could have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Flu-like symptoms in dogs and cats can be associated with various more common viral and bacterial infections, such as kennel cough and feline upper respiratory viral disease.
Should my pet wear a mask?
• Currently, there is no reason to believe that a face mask will protect your pet.
• Pets’ faces have very different shapes, therefore, it will be very difficult to even find an appropriate mask for your particular pet. Also, masks are likely to be uncomfortable for pets to wear and may frighten them.
The above recommendations can change at any time as more information about this novel virus becomes available. Feel free to phone us if you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19 in regards to your pets.
Submitted by Shamrock Animal Hospital, Comox