There’s no denying that the new Covid-19 virus (you may know it as the coronavirus) has everyone worried about their own health but there’s other members of the family that you may worry about as well. Can your dog or cat get Covid-19 from you? Can they get it from other people and give it to you?
Let’s answer this with what we know so far…there’s no direct evidence that dogs or cats can get infected with Covid-19. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) sent all veterinarians an email advising us on the news that one dog “tested positive” in Hong Kong. Here’s what they told us:
On Thursday, February 27, a dog in Hong Kong tested “weak positive” for coronavirus (the owner tested positive for coronavirus). The dog has since received a second positive result that has been sent to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), which is working with Hong Kong health officials on this case. The precise meaning of “weak positive” remains unclear and further evaluation is ongoing. Hong Kong authorities have said the dog shows no clinical signs of illness but remains quarantined.
-AVMA 3/3/20
What Does A Positive Test Mean?
First, let’s be clear that the dog had no symptoms that one would associate with coronavirus/Covid-19. The caregiver of the dog was symptomatic and tested positive. The dog was tested at the request of the owner.
Oral swabs were taken as part of the testing process. Is it posible that the virus was inside of the mouth of the dog because it had inhaled it? Perhaps in licking the owner? Maybe the owner shed the virus into the water or food bowl of the dog and that’s how it obtained the virus.
We don’t know these answers at this time, but this issue will continue to be investigated. This article will be updated as more details emerge and we get a more complete answer.
How Can I Keep My Dog/Cat Safe During This Time Just To Be Sure?
Since there is still so much we don’t know about the virus, it is recommended to take certain precautions with your pets or other animals if you end up testing positive for Covid-19.
According to the CDC, people who are sick with COVID-19 should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would restrict your contact with other people. When possible, a member of the household other than the individual who is ill should care for any animals in the household. Those infected with COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. Those who must care for a pet, or who will be around animals while sick, should wear an appropriate facemask and wash hands thoroughly before and after interacting with those animals.
AVMA 3/3/2020
We will continue to update you as we learn more information.
For more information about Covid-19 in the United States, Click Here.
The World Health Organization has an FAQ about Covid-19 HERE.
For information about Covid-19 in Colorado – Click Here.
