Can I get COVID-19 from my dog?
There are many Coronaviruses. Some cause illness in people while others cause illness in certain types of animals. There are specific ones that impact cattle, camels, bats, etc. The Coronavirus that infects canines and felines does not infect humans. You can read more details about all this on the CDC website.
Today we want to cover COVID-19 and our beloved dogs. Currently there is no evidence to suggest any dogs might be a source of COVID-19. However just like they can go play in the mud and track that all over the house and you if they jump on you, they can do the same with other germs. With this in mind it is always good practice to follow healthy habits around your pets.
- Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or other supplies
- Clean up after your pets properly.
- If you have concerns about your pets health contact your veterinarian.
At this time there are no reports of dogs becoming sick with COVID-19. Further studies are needed to understand if and how COVID-19 may affect dogs.
Do I need to get my dog tested for COVID-19?
At this time routine testing of dogs for COVID-19 is not recommended so no.
Should I avoid contact with my dog if I am sick with COVID-19?
If you do become sick with COVID-19 it is good to restrict contact with your dogs just like the rest of your family. If you have to care for your pet while you are sick and cannot find anyone else to do so then make sure to wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
Are dogs safe to adopt?
At this time there is no evidence to make anyone think adopting dogs from shelters or other locations is unsafe due to COVID-19
Can dogs get COVID-19?
Experts believe this to be unlikely at this time. There is no evidence according to the World Health Organization that suggest dogs can be infected with the new coronavirus. The OIE and the CDC also have no evidence that dogs play a role in the spread of the disease or that they may become sick.
Can my dog spread the virus between people?
Yes, this is possible. Just like when they track dirt and mud into your house if your dog is contaminated by a sneeze or other method and then another individual touches your dog it is possible they could contract the disease. Veterinary experts believe this risk to be low however. COVID-19 survives longer on hard inanimate surfaces and soft surfaces. You can read more at the College of Veterinarian Medicine.
