No, Your Dog Can't Give You COVID-19 and Other Answers

VASANT KUNJ, India - July 20, 2020 - PRLog -- The issue on everyone's mind is COVID-19 and what they can do to keep their loved ones safe. For pet people, of course, this includes their furry companions. Does COVID-19 affect pets? Can you get it from them? Do extra measures need to be taken to protect them?

We've checked info from the WHO (World Health Organisation) and OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health) to get you answers.

Can Pets Transmit COVID-19?

No, the WHO has stated that there is no evidence that a pet can transmit COVID-19 to humans. The current pandemic is a result of human-to-human transmission. When a person infected by COVID-19 sneezes, coughs or even speaks, droplets produced by that person can transmit the virus to other people.

Wait, wasn't there a dog in China that tested positive?

Yes, a dog in Hong-Kong tested a weak positive for COVID-19 and the authorities say that it was a case of HUMAN-to-dog transmission. The munchkin's family had COVID-19 and due to close exposure, he tested positive. Don't worry, he did not display any signs of the disease and was absolutely fine. While the scientific community is still learning about this disease, there is no evidence that it harms pets.

So the answer is still – No, you cannot catch COVID-19 from your pets and they cannot transmit the disease. To quote OIE "there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare." Learn more on WHO website.

Should you be doing something?

Yes, don't panic. Look to reliable sources of information like the WHO for your updates rather than sensationalized media articles. Also,

For yourself:

-    If you're showing symptoms of COVID-19, get tested. Still, don't panic 80% of infected people recover without any special treatment.
-    It is important to stay in quarantine for you and your loved ones.
-   Use Face Mask, Sanitizers and follow Social Distancing guidelines.

Face Mask: https://headsupfortails.com/collections/face-mask

For your pets:

-     Wash your hands (at least for 30 - 60 secs with soap) before & after handling pets or feeding them.
-    Avoid giving them kisses, letting them lick you or sharing food. OIE also suggests you wear a mask around your pets so you avoid getting any droplets on them (if you test positive).