The World Health Organization has declared coronavirus Covid-19 as a pandemic on March 2020. Now, pet owners around the world find themselves faced with several questions — Can dogs get coronavirus Covid-19? Can coronavirus Covid-19 pass from dogs to humans? What is canine coronavirus? We’ve broken it down for you:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), currently there is no evidence that dogs can infect humans with Covid-19.
Why the confusion?
NEWS #1: Two dogs in Hong Kong were tested ‘positive’ for coronavirus Covid-19. The owner of the first dog was infected with Covid-19 and it is believed to be a human-to-animal transmission. Clinically, the 17-yr-old Pomeranian, who passed away, did not exhibit any signs of the disease within or outside quarantine. Same goes for the second dog, a German Shepherd.
MEANING #1: The virus found on the dog’s nose was as good as the virus found on any other part of the owner’s house. Just like a door knob. Anyone who touches the door knob risks exposure and infection. In short, there is no correlation between the dog’s death and Covid-19.
NEWS #2: Dogs can contract certain types of coronaviruses but not Covid-19 MEANING #2: While dogs can fall ill from certain types of coronaviruses such as canine coronavirus, there has not been a single case of any dog falling sick due to Covid-19. Canine coronavirus causes mild gastroenteritis in dogs while Covid-19 causes no symptoms whatsoever.
So, can dogs get coronavirus Covid-19 or can it pass from dogs to humans? The answer for both is NO.
Coronavirus Covid-19 and dogs: Helpful Tips
With social distancing, it is only natural that we’ll be spending more time with our dogs. Here are some helpful tips to follow:
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Practise basic hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after contact with your dog
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Wipe your dog’s paws when stepping in and out of the house
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Avoid letting people pet your dog for the time being
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Stock up on 30-days of pet food, preventive medicines, cleaning supplies & products
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Make sure your dog is up-to-date with shots, especially if she/he goes to boarding
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Keep your dog mentally engaged with puzzle toys and treat dispensers
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Identify a family member or friend who can take care of your dog in case you fall ill
In case you test positive for Covid-19 or have been exposed:
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Restrict contact with your dog so as to avoid getting the virus on their fur, which can pass on to another human who touches your dog
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Avoid activities such as petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked
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Wash your hands before and after contact and wear a mask
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Do not make the dog wear a mask as it restricts normal breathing
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Dogs can stay with you if you self-quarantine
Due to the coronavirus Covid-19 outbreak, a lot of people have abandoned their pets following misinformation. Please share this article to increase awareness.
