COVID-19 and Pets

Every day new information becomes available regarding COVID-19. At PAWS we advocate for pets and their people, and we’re grateful to see the cooperation with the COVID-19 restrictions within our community. Pets are undoubtedly lavishing in the extra time spent with us, but what does COVID-19 mean for their health?

Can COVID-19 infect our pets and is it contagious between pets and people

Coronaviruses have lived in animals for thousands of years, but only a paw-ful have caused human illness. This particular strain of Coronavirus, COVID-19 is very successful at spreading from human to human. To date, the CDC has not received any reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States and infectious disease experts agree there is no evidence to indicate that pets spread COVID-19 to people. There is also no evidence that the virus can spread to people from the skin or fur of pets.

What precautions should I take to protect my pet from COVID-19?

Pet owners should have all the necessary supplies to care for their pets for at least 2 weeks in case they cannot leave their homes. Exhibit cautionary behavior when recreating with your pets. Keeps your dog on leash and try to limit nose to nose contact as this will prevent the transmission of any infectious disease.

If you are not ill with COVID-19 you can interact with your pets as you normally would. You should remain focused on hygiene, washing your hands often, especially before feeding them and after cleaning up waste. Out of an abundance of caution and until more is known about this virus, if you are ill with COVID-19 you should restrict contact with your pets just as you would restrict your contact with other people. Use common sense measures to protect everyone around you. When possible, have another member of your household feed your pet and avoid direct physical contact.. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, it is only necessary to remove a pet from a household with COVID-19 positive resident if the person is unable to care for the pet.

Now more than ever, the bond between pets and humans is incredibly valuable. We are all so lucky to share our lives with these creatures who keep us sane, entertained, and loved unconditionally. We hope that this information has provided comfort and assistance in planning for the future. If you would like an accurate up to date source of information regarding COVID-19 and animals please visit the AVMA website.

For all offered resources to the Jackson community during the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit the JH COVID website. If you are in need of pet-specific assistance our regular programs are still at work and you can apply for assistance via our webpage. If you are in need of COVID-19 related assistance such as pet food and/or emergency boarding please email us with your need and contact information to info@pawsofjh.org. Please visit our Facebook page for a note from Dr. Dan Forman, Teton District Board of Health, regarding COVID-19 and local pets.