The deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread all over the world in recent weeks — a global pandemic we never saw coming. On Sunday 22 March, the total cases in South Africa rose to 274. As the number grows, so does our paranoia about contracting the virus. Should we worry about our pets too?
Now that most of us are self-isolating and practising social-distancing, we are spending more time with our pets which is a wonderful thing but there could very well be a downside.
Can we give coronavirus to our pets? Can they give it to us? Should we be taking precautions in our interactions with them? Here’s everything you need to know about having a loving and safe exchange with your furry friend.
Can our pets contract the coronavirus?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there is no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit the coronavirus.
“COVID-19 is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently and thoroughly,” it said.
This, even though a dog was thought to have passed away due to the coronavirus in Hong Kong.
“WHO continues to monitor the latest research on this and other COVID-19 topics and will update as new findings are available,” it added.
If you think you’re infected, should you keep your distance?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if you suspect you have coronavirus or tested positive for the virus, it is recommended you keep your distance from your pets, as you would any other human being.
“It is still recommended that people with the virus limit contact with animals until more information is known,” said the CDC.
“When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick with COVID-19. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them,” it added.
What to do if your pet develops an un-explained illness?
According to the Global Veterinary Community (WSAVA), it is not yet known if companion animals can get infected by SARS-Cov-2 or sick with coronavirus. If your pet develops an unexplained illness and has been exposed to a person with COVID-19, talk to the public health official working with the person with COVID-19.
If your area has a public health veterinarian, the public health official will consult with them or another appropriate official. If the state public health veterinarian, or another public health official, advises you to take your pet to a veterinary clinic, call your veterinary clinic before you go to let them know that you are bringing a sick pet that has been exposed to a person with COVID-19.
This will allow the clinic time to prepare an isolation area.
Source: The South African Read More
