It seems like there new (and sometimes contradictory) information about COVID-19 every 5 minutes. It’s overwhelming, and hard to know if you are doing the right thing from moment to moment. We worry about our health, our children’s health, our community. And as dog lovers, we want to know what’s best for our beloved companions.
Here’s what we know about dogs and new coronavirus to date (March 14, 2020):
Can dogs get the new coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The coronavirus responsible for COVID-19 is designated SARS-CoV-2. The World Health Organization currently advises that there is no evidence that dogs or cats play a role in the spread of this human disease or that they will become sick. The CDC also seconds that opinion, stating that, “At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19.” Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19 virus.
As you may have heard, a dog has tested positive for this new coronavirus. The Veterinary Services of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China reported that a dog had a weak positive response to a test for the coronavirus following close exposure to its owners who were sick with COVID-19. The test, conducted by real time PCR, showed the presence of genetic material from the COVID-19 virus. The dog was not showing any clinical signs of the disease. This canine patient was in close contact with an infected human, who was likely shedding large quantities of the virus. This led to the virus being in the dog’s nose. The implications of a "weak positive" test result are unclear. "We have to differentiate between real infection and just detecting the presence of the virus," says Prof Jonathan Ball, professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham, UK. There is no indication that the dog is sick or showing any symptoms. Authorities say they will continue to quarantine and test the dog to evaluate if the canine patient becomes ill.
Although pets cannot become sick from COVID-19, they can serve as a conduit of infection between people. 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. In most circumstances, Veterinary experts believe the risk for transmission would be low.
If someone is sick at home, the chances are higher that pets will have the virus on them since they are in an environment with a large quantity of the virus. They could serve as a source of the virus for other people, including family members. To protect other people and yourself, the CDC recommends that you restrict contact with pets if you are sick with COVID-19, just as you would restrict your contact with other people. Have another member of your family care for your pet, if possible. As hard as it may be, avoid snuggling, being kissed or licked or sharing your food with them. The CDC advises that if you must interact with your pet, wash your hands before and after, and wear a face mask.
How should I prepare for my pets if there is a quarantine?
Animal owners should continue to include pets and other animals in their emergency preparedness planning, including keeping a two-to-four week supply of food and medications on hand for possible quarantine.
Should I still socialize my puppy or take my adult dog on outings during this pandemic?
If you are self-quarantining or your community has a quarantine imposed, or you are sick. Stay home.
If you aren't sick or quarantined, it may be possible to provide some limited socialization for your dog. We know that socializing puppies is important for their integration into our human society. During this epidemic, it may be necessary to change our strategy for socializing our dogs. You may still give your puppy life experiences, such as hearing new sounds, seeing new objects, walking on different surfaces, etc. Be thoughtful and careful in your planning: you may need to change where you go, or what time of day, in order to avoid crowds, and people who may be carriers of the coronavirus. It might be prudent to avoid dog parks, or soccer matches, or other social community gatherings. Avoid going to places where there may be a better chance of encountering coronavirus on environmental surfaces. This includes consideration regarding the risk of walking your dog in your neighborhood. If there are families and neighbors who are ill, your dog may track the virus home to your family. Taking your dog to less traveled places for walking and exercise might be a better option. Bathing your dog occasionally or washing their feet is an additional precaution.
Likewise, organizations like the World Organization for Animal Health are discouraging therapy dog visits to nursing homes, hospices, hospitals and long-term care facilities. Your chances of encountering coronavirus may be higher in these locations, and if you inadvertently bring the virus to the facility, it can be devastating to the elderly people who live there. Contact your Therapy Dog organization and the facility you visit for specific guidance.
What we are doing at PlayNTrain K9 to limit your exposure:
1. As always, the floor will be cleaned with a sanitizing solution prior to classes.
2. Hand sanitizer will be made available, as long as supplies last.
3. We will continue to practice social distancing and avoiding handshakes.
4. Unfortunately, I will have to take a more hands off approach to minimize contact with you and your dog. (Now is the time to get your dog’s jumping under control, LOL)
5. We ask that you stay home if you or your family member have any symptoms or have traveled in the past two weeks.
6. I promise to do the same so as not to put you or your family at risk.
7. In the future, I may need to suspend group classes if the situation warrants. If classes are cancelled, you will receive a partial refund.
This is going to be a rough time for all of us. If we can be thoughtful in our daily decisions, we’ll have a better chance of minimizing the risk not only to ourselves, but also to the other people in our community. . Each person needs to weigh the risk for themselves, their friends and family, and the community at large.
For me, it means giving up the doggy get-togethers with my friends, and not attending shows this year. And possible suspension of my classes, which I enjoy so much ! There is a Silver lining: The more I stay home, the more time I have to play and train my dogs. And do online learning webinars and classes so I can become a better trainer and instructor.
This information is ever evolving, as we learn more through science and research. This blog provides just what is known at this point in time. New information may provide more insight, so keep informed.
World Organization for Animal Health: https://www.oie.int/scientific-expertise/specific-information-and-recommendations/questions-and-answers-on-2019novel-coronavirus/
U of Ill Vet School https://vetmed.illinois.edu/pet_column/coronavirus-pets/
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