It’s important for pet owners to know how the COVID-19 virus is transmitted, and how it’s not.
The primary mode of transmission of COVID-19 is through aerosol and droplets, generally produced through a cough or sneeze, and is spread through person-to-person contact. Emerging manifestations of the virus affecting body systems in addition to the respiratory system are being reported and new syndromes associated with COVID-19 being recognized and investigated.
Recent information has emerged indicating the probable transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from farmed mink to humans in Holland. Researchers are seeking further evidence to determine the validity of these reports, and implications for related species, such as ferrets.
This underscores the need to remain vigilant and be cautious when interacting with any animals in order to avoid potential zoonotic disease transmission between animals and humans, and vice versa.
Other domestic and wild animal species are being evaluated for susceptibility to COVID-19, as there is still so much that is unknown. International infectious disease experts agree that currently there remains no evidence of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from pet dogs and cats to humans.
So much is yet unknown, further controlled studies are needed and are underway. There is no need to remove an animal from its home unless there is concern that the pet itself is not being cared for properly.
Good hygiene practices are essential to prevent spread and to protect your health and that of your pets. This includes frequent hand washing before and after interacting with your pet, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers when washing is not possible, and not touching your face during and after interactions. This advice also extends to handling food and water bowls, bedding, toys, and waste pick up and disposal.
Keep cats and ferrets indoors to prevent interactions with other animals outside of the household, and walk dogs on a leash maintaining at least six feet of social distance from other people and dogs. Avoid dog parks and off-leash areas where contact is more likely.
For COVID-19 patients, recommendations include having another family member care for the pets and drastically limiting any direct contact between the patient and the pets. Wearing a face mask or cloth face covering; not sharing food, hugs and kisses with the pet; and washing hands both before and after any contact are essential measures to prevent any possible sharing of the virus.
The University of Washington is performing a pilot study, in collaboration with the Washington Animal Disease and Diagnostic Laboratory at WSU, regarding people that have been confirmed COVID-19 and their pets. For more information about the study go to: https://deohs.washington.edu/cohr/covid-19-and-pets-study-caps
Being prepared with an emergency kit with a two-week supply of food and needed medications for each pet is also important. If the pet needs to see the vet, always call in advance to help the clinic maintain all safety precautions they have in place to protect you, your pets and their staff.
Especially at this time of uncertainty, people and their pets need the support of each other. Veterinarians are there to support the good health of both.
More information from the experts:
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html
American Veterinary Medical Association: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/covid-19/sars-cov-2-animals-including-pets