Novel Coronavirus and Your Pets: What You Need to Know
While novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) responsible for the disease COVID-19, continues to affect the world, many pet owners are social distancing, sheltering in place, or quarantined while wondering whether the virus can have any effect on their pets.
Are Cats and Dogs at Risk of Contracting or Transmitting Novel Coronavirus?
Neither a clear nor definitive answer exists to this question. Currently, there is no evidence that cats or dogs are able to contract or transmit SARS-CoV2. However, much more research is needed to understand if/how this virus affects domestic animals.
Feline Coronavirus and Canine Coronavirus Are Not the Same as Novel Coronavirus
Certain strains of coronavirus can be contracted and transmitted by dogs (CCoV), cats (FCoV), and other domestic animals. These strains of coronavirus, however, are different from SARS-CoV2 and are not transmissible to humans.
How to Protect Your Pets and Family During the Novel Coronavirus Pandemic
Since it remains unclear whether the novel coronavirus will have any impact on pets, the AVMA recommends that pet owners take precautions to keep their pets and families safe.
During this time, you should practice social distancing with your pets in order to prevent them from being exposed to the virus via interaction with humans or pets from separate households. It’s important to keep in mind that while we don’t know for sure whether pets can transmit SARS-CoV2, they can still act as surface carriers. If pets are exposed, you could be exposed by petting your dog or cat and then touching your face.
Numerous zoonotic diseases exist, so it’s always smart to wash your hands before and after interacting with any animals.
Wesson Animal Clinic's Novel Coronavirus Response
At Wesson Animal Clinic, we’re taking extra precautions to keep our clients, patients, and staff safe, while continuing to provide exceptional veterinary care during this unprecedented time. We’re still open during regular business hours, but are providing curbside service to our patients and clients.
When you arrive for your appointment, we’ll send a representative out to collect your pet, and we ask that you remain inside your vehicle. To minimize human contact and exposure, we’re also encouraging clients to pay via credit or debit card over the phone. If you or another member of your household is feeling sick, we request that you reschedule your pet’s appointment, if it’s not an urgent situation.
For more information about scheduling and rescheduling appointments or picking up your pet’s medication and other supplies at this time, we welcome you to contact our office. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.
