Can Pets Contract or Spread COVID -19?

The global outbreak of Coronavirus now called “COVID-19” has left many of us worried and paranoid about our health. We are even hesitant in carrying out everyday tasks such as commuting on public transport or interacting with people. The number of people diagnosed with this epidemic has reached more than 82,000 and claimed the deaths of over 2800 people worldwide. The first-ever cases of COVID- 19 were reported in Wuhan City, Hubei province of China.

Who is majorly at risk?

Humans, as well as animals who have compromised immune systems because of their age or their existing diseases, are more prone to be infected with COVID — 19. Moreover, Coronavirus is contagious and can cause harm to others when an individual is experiencing signs of illness such as coughing, fever and difficulty in breathing. In terms of this virus’s background, dozens of viruses exist in the coronavirus family, out of which only seven trouble humans in the form of runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever and liver damage that results in death. This virus is composed of at least three groups that cause respiratory or systemic disease and other well-known coronaviruses are SARS and MERS.

While not declining the fact that canine coronaviruses are common in mammals and domestic pets like cattle, horses, dogs, cats, bats, and others, the recent pandemic also seems to have emerged from an animal source. Where much is still unknown about this virus being transferred from animals to humans; the pet dog of a coronavirus patient in Hong Kong has been found to have a low-level of this widespread disease. The Hong Kong agricultural department said it does not have any strong evidence that pet animals can be infected or be a source of infection to the people. Officials said in a statement that the dog is currently under quarantine and they will carry out further tests to confirm whether the dog has been infected with the disease or it was the result of environmental contamination that occurred through its mouth and nose.

Nevertheless, it is always preferable to take precautions. So, how and what preventive measures can be taken to safeguard our family (pets and humans) as well as ourselves? For humans the precautions are straightforward and easy to deal with like:

· The virus is mainly transmitted with droplets so the major advice is to cover the mouth with a tissue or your elbow while coughing and sneezing

· Frequent hand-wash with soap and water; especially hand sanitizers

· Staying indoors when feeling illness

· Disinfecting surfaces

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

· Avoid any contact between people with suspected or confirmed infections

And in case of protecting our fur buddies, though the virus can not be transmitted from animals to humans, precautions are necessary here as well.

Can pets get vaccinations against coronavirus?

There are vaccines available in some countries related to canine and feline coronaviruses. However, as they are quite different from COVID — 19, it is very unlikely that they can confirm any protection for pets against the recent outbreak.

To date, CDC (Centers for disease control and prevention) has not received any report of pets transmitting coronavirus to humans but yes, other diseases can be disseminated. Thus, it is always a good idea to maintain good hygiene of your pets to save them from being under the influence of any disease. In most cases, canine coronavirus is contracted by oral contact with infected faecal matter. A dog may also become infected by contaminated food bowls or by having direct contact with other animals or pets. In short, unsanitary and unhygienic conditions can be harmful to your pets. To avoid such problems, waste management is always a good idea. Cleaning is not completed unless your pet is actually secured in its surroundings. Therefore, it is better to hand-over the thorough cleaning of faeces to waste management service experts instead of tackling it on your own. This will not only assist you in cleaning up the mess but will enhance the protection of your fur babies also.

All in all, like humans, dogs do not need masks to protect themselves against the novel coronavirus but if you feel suspicious about their behaviour and health of your pet, it is strongly recommended to speak to a veterinarian.