New CDC Guidelines For Pets During Covid-19 Pandemic

The new recommendations come after a small number of cats and dogs tested positive for COVID-19 after being around people with the virus.

A dog in North Carolina has tested positive for the coronavirus.  WRAL reports, "the family was involved in a study at Duke in which the mother, father, and son tested positive for COVID-19. During this study, the family had their pets tested and found out their pug, Winston, had coronavirus."

There is no evidence that domestic animals, including livestock, can spread COVID-19 to humans, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals. The CDC advises you to treat pets as you would other human family members.

do not let pets interact with people or animals outside the household. If a person inside the household becomes sick, isolate that person from everyone else, including pets. [CDC]

Until we know more about this virus, people sick with COVID-19 should avoid contact with pets and other animals.

• When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.
• Avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.
• If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.

If your pet becomes sick, do not take it to the veterinary clinic, call them and let them know you have been ill with COVID-19. Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other plans for seeing sick pets.

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Issued this warning to pet owners sick with COVID-19 after 8 big cats tested positive since then 2 other cats have tested positive, bringing the total to 10.

if you are ill with COVID-19, you should restrict contact with pets and other animals...When possible, have another member of your household or business take care of feeding and otherwise caring for any animals, including pets. If you have a service animal or you must care for your animals, including pets, wear a cloth facemask; don't share food, kiss, or hug them; and wash your hands before and after any contact with them. [AVMA]

For more information, visit the CDC or AVMA.

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