ACLA News:
As a pet owner, you may have questions about how COVID-19 affects not only humans, but also our pets.
To provide some clarity and peace of mind, here are answers to some of the most common questions and concerns we hear from pet owners.
COVID-19 and animals
Because experts believe COVID-19 originated in animals before being transmitted to humans, pet owners may wonder if the disease could be passed from pet to owner. Rest assured, there is no evidence that any pets, livestock or other animals in the U.S. could be a source of COVID-19.
Similarly, there are no reported instances of human-to-animal transmission, either — so your pet will likely be safe, even if you get sick.
However, if someone you know suspects they’ve contracted COVID-19, they should limit their exposure to both humans and animals. This is the safest approach until we have a more complete understanding of the virus.
Source: CDC
COVID-19 vs. canine coronavirus
Some pet owners may be familiar with canine coronavirus (CCoV) or canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCoV). While COVID-19 is also a coronavirus, it is a completely different disease. Regardless, there is no evidence that either CCoV or CRCoV can be passed from animals to humans.
Source: PetMD
More about canine coronavirus
Canine coronavirus is a highly contagious intestinal disease that is most commonly spread through contact with feces from an infected dog. The best way to protect against it is to prevent dogs from coming into contact with each other’s feces, as well as to keep their kennels clean. Most cases are asymptomatic, but if a dog does show symptoms (ranging from diarrhea and anorexia to depression), it should be isolated immediately.
Fortunately, canine coronavirus is considered a relatively mild disease. While puppies and other dogs with underdeveloped immune systems are at greater risk, there is a vaccine available to protect them.
Source: PetMD
What you should do
While you shouldn’t have to worry about getting COVID-19 from your pet, it’s still a good idea to wash your hands after handling pets, their waste, their cages, etc. Doing so will help protect you from other diseases that can be passed from pets to owners.
Source: CDC