The new virus called COVID-19 has spread very quickly in the last few months and people have become very concerned about both their health and that of their pets. There are lots of pictures of pets wearing face masks circulating on the internet and this is why many people want to know if their pets can be infected with this virus.

Unfortunately, coronavirus has become a global epidemic and it is very important to know what to do to protect your little furry friend from this illness.

So read on to find out more about coronavirus in pets.

What is coronavirus?

First of all, it is very important to clarify information about this virus. So, as you probably know, coronavirus or COVID-19 is a virus that started in Wuhan, China and can cause respiratory issues. The symptoms that you can feel are as follows: coughing, fever and breathing difficulties. Thus, the new coronavirus can actually cause pneumonia.

Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment or vaccine against the virus, but the symptoms can be treated and the Coronavirus can be prevented if you have adequate personal hygiene and avoid the contact with sick people.

It is true that coronavirus can infect pets?

It is said that dogs can contract the virus, such as the canine respiratory coronavirus but this does not affect their health.

According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, “Currently there is limited evidence that companion animals can be infected with Sar-Cov-2 and no evidence that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection to other animals or to humans. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19 until we know more, pet owners should avoid contact with animals they are unfamiliar with and always wash their hands before and after they interact with animals.”

Hong Kong Pomeranian was really infected?

In February, a Pomeranian was tested as “weakly positive”, but animal specialists said that the dog was perfectly fine and showed no symptoms. Nevertheless, the Hong Kong Pomeranian is the only pet in the world that was tested positive for canine COVID-19.

“The dog had low levels of the virus in its nose and mouth… and could have picked it up from the patient with the virus – or from surfaces he had touched. Since dogs’ noses and mouths come in contact with just about everything, it is hard to say,” says Rachel Barrack, DVM, CVA, CVCH and founder of a concierge practice, Animal Acupuncture in New York City.

Can pets become coronavirus carriers?

Although we talk about infected pets, there is still no evidence that our beloved pets can spread the new coronavirus among humans or other animals.

“There is no evidence that dogs play a role in the spread of this human disease or that they become sick,” said the World Organisation for Animal Health. “Even if the cats and dogs cough droplets, they would not go too far,” Dr. Ho said. “If anything, this highlights that we humans still need to be more careful to avoid infecting other loved ones in our household, furry or not,” Dr. Mackay said.

Is it possible to infect other pets?

It is said that infected cats spread the SARS virus to other cats longer than dogs. However, the fact that cats can spread this virus faster has not been scientifically confirmed. In addition, you have to take some precautions and stay away from other pets and also clean up after your dog.

“To date, there is no evidence that companion animals can spread the disease. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare,” the World Organisation for Animal Health said.

Types of coronavirus in pets

“The most common strains of coronavirus that affect dogs are canine enteric coronavirus, or CECoV, and canine respiratory coronavirus, known as CRCoV, neither of which can be transmitted to humans. Survival rates of both [types of canine coronavirus] are high. Almost always, the symptoms of these two strains are mild and pets typically recover on their own,” says Jamie Richardson, DVM, medical chief of staff at Small Door Veterinary in New York City.

CRCoV or kennel cough has the same symptoms as coronavirus in humans, such as cough, fever or respiratory difficulties. So, you have to make sure that your dog is healthy and in a good condition. Therefore, you can call your veterinarian if you think that your pet is sick and it has interacted with infected people or animals.

How to protect your little furry friend from coronavirus

Well, one of the most important things that you have to take into consideration when it comes to viruses is to keep your pet away from other animals. Besides the fact that it is essential to reduce the interaction with other creatures, you should not kiss or cuddle animals if you are infected.

According to Caroline Reay, Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, “If you have COVID-19, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends restricting contact with pets and other animals; no stroking, cuddling or kissing. Though there is no current evidence that pets can get the virus, the situation is still evolving, so it’s better to be safe. If you must look after your pet, be sure to wash your hands before and after handling them and wear a facemask.”

The CDC said that “You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.”

What you should do if you are self isolating?

Whether you are self isolated at home or in a hospital it is very important to talk to someone who can take care of your pet while you are in quarantine. If you do not have a neighbor or other family members to help you then you can arrange things is advance. For instance, you can assure them more water and food for a longer period of time. If you want to keep them active, you can throw toys or treats without stepping outside your front door.

What to do to protect your dog from coronavirus  

Even though there is no scientific confirmation for the transmission of the virus between humans and animals, you better stay away from your pet if you contracted the new coronavirus. Moreover, if you find out that your pet is actually sick you should restrict the contact with other pets and call your veterinarian. One of the most important things is to wash your hands before and after touching your beloved furry friend. Not just coronavirus can be spread between people and pets, but also other viruses such as salmonella and E.coli.

“Keep her home and away from dog parks, groomers, and playgroups to limit the spread to other dogs,” says Dr. Richardson. “There is no need to panic,” concludes Dr. Kuo. “The veterinary community is heavily involved with understanding this rapidly evolving situation and how it affects our pets.”