Coronavirus and Pets - What should I know?
With (most of) Pennsylvania in quarantine due to the coronavirus, those with pets may be wondering “What does this mean for Fido?!” During these uncertain times, the Center for Disease Control has no evidence that animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. COVID-19 can cause illness in people while other strands can cause illness in certain types of animals, such as cattle, camels and bats. Here are some commonly asked questions about the virus and pets.
Q: How do I stay healthy around animals?
A: The CDC states that in the United States, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time. But, since all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it is always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets!
Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste and supplies! The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth!
Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after your pets properly!
Take your pets to the veterinarian regularly! Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.
Q: When should I wash my hands?
A: Take into consideration these times throughout the day to wash your hands:
After touching or playing with your pet
After feeding your pet or handling pet food
After handling pet habitats or equipment (cages, toys, food and water dishes)
After cleaning up after pets
After leaving areas where animals live, even if you did not touch an animal
Before eating and drinking
Before preparing food or drinks
After removing soiled clothes or shoes
Q: How do I practice good pet hygiene?
A: Practicing good pet hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs between people and pets. Follow these guidelines to keep you and your pets healthy:
Keep pets and their supplies out of the kitchen.
Disinfect pet habitats and supplies outside the house when possible.
Never clean supplies in the kitchen sink, food preparation areas or the bathroom sink! Pets can contaminate surfaces in your home with germs – you don’t have to touch pets to get sick from their germs.
Always remove your dog’s feces from your yard and public places by using a bag and disposing of it in proper places.
Q: Can the virus be passed from pet to person?
A: It is possible that a person with COVID-19 could sneeze or otherwise contaminate their pet, and then another individual could touch that animal and contract the disease; but experts believe the risk for transmission would be low. COVID-19 survives longer on hard, inanimate surfaces (i.e. glass and metal) than on soft surfaces (i.e. fur and cardboard). Practicing good hygiene skills can reduce these risks further.
Q: What if I become sick?
A: If you suspect you are sick or have tested positive for COVID-19, restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would around other people. Despite there being no reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended by the CDC to limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus.
If possible, try to get another member of your household to care for your animals while you are sick to ensure both you and your animals stay healthy. Avoid contact with your pet including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked and sharing food. If you do not have someone else to care for your pet while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
Special Message from Going Mutts Pet Services
With the ongoing health concern, Going Mutts Pet Services wants to ensure that we take our client’s health seriously and will use all precautions when on your property, in your house and while handling your pets. As our mission states, we strive to give excellent customer service through our expert care giving skills and communication.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html