Coronavirus (COVID19) and Your Pets
With the Coronavirus (COVID19) going around, there are many pet-related questions that people have about the safety of their pets during this outbreak. Dr. Sara Ochoa, veterinarian, has answered many common questions that people are asking.
Can my pets, dogs, and cats, be infected with COVID19?
No. At the current time, veterinarians and the CDC do not think that cats and dogs can become sick from infection with COVID19. These experts also do not think that your pets can spread the disease. There is still a lot that is unknown about the virus. Researchers are not sure if pets may be colonized by the virus, despite not getting sick. Pets may temporarily harbor viruses on the coat and other areas of the pet’s body.
I have been diagnosed with COVID19. What should I do with my pet?
The CDC recommends that you limit your contact with your pet. You should ask another family member to take care of your pet for at least 14 days since you were diagnosed. This will help decrease the chance of your dog or cat getting sick or them possibly carrying particles of the virus on their fur.
What if no one else can care for the pet, what should I do?
If you live at home alone and there is no one that can take care of your pet. You can feed, water, and let them outside for potty breaks. Make sure this is very limited contact. You can give your dog extra toys to play with to help keep them entertained. Many vets recommend using a baby gate and closing them off in a different room. You can also consider taking them to a boarding facility. Please remember to inform the boarding facility that your dog has been around someone who tested positive for COVID19.
As a pet owner, what should I do to prepare for COVID19?
When making emergency plans, make sure to include pets and any other animals in your family’s emergency plan. It is always advised to keep at least 2 weeks of food and medications on hand. If you should become sick, decrease, or even restrict contact with your dogs and cats. Make sure to wash hands for at least 20 seconds before and after touching your pets and their food or supplies.
While COVID 19 can be very easily transmitted from people to people at the current time, there are no reports of dogs and cats getting the virus. All veterinary boards, CDC, and WHO is monitoring the spread of this virus between pets and people and will send out updates as soon as they are available.
COVID 19 isn’t the only thing that might threaten your furry friend. Sometimes sickness comes without warning. When it does, you’ll be very glad you had pet insurance. With pet insurance you can customize it for what you need. Get a quote to see what your pet needs and what fits your finances. We have a plan for almost every situation. You can even get your questions answered before you make a decision. When it all comes down to it, we just want your pet to be safe. That’s what matters.
Planning to get insurance for your fur babies? This article provides a guide to understanding pet insurance.
