CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND PETS
Although there are no reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, pet owners should avoid contact with unfamiliar animals and always wash their hands before and after they interact with animals until more is understood about the virus.
It is always best if pets are able to stay in their own homes. If pet owners are sick with COVID-19, they should avoid contact with pets (including petting, snuggling, sharing food, etc.). Sick owners should separate themselves from any pets and have someone else in the household care for any animals as needed. If pet owners absolutely need to care for their pets while they are sick, they should wear a facemask and wash their hands before and after they interact with their pets.
Pet owners who cannot provide care or require hospitalization should have a plan in place for their pets.
• Identify a family member or friend who can care for pets if someone in your household becomes ill.
• Have crates, food, and extra supplies on hand for quick movement of pets.
• Make sure your pet’s vaccinations are current in the event boarding becomes necessary.
• Ensure all medications are documented with dosages and directions. Include prescriptions from your veterinarian if possible.
• Ensure all pets have visual identification (collar with ID tag) and a microchip.
• Make a disaster plan for your pets.
Arranging to have your pet cared for by a family member or friend could become especially important in some situations. It is in the best interest of your pets to have made such arrangements for their care in the comfort of someone’s home. Even if a pet may be cared for at a local animal shelter as a last resort, there are many more stresses and strains as well as the exposure to diseases from a high volume of animals entering the shelter environment.
For anyone who assumes care of a pet whose owner has tested positive for COVID-19, it is recommended that the caretaker use caution and contact a public health professional before handling the pet. At the very least, they should wear gloves, giving the pet a thorough bath (with pet-friendly soap and warm water) before the pet enters a new home, and segregate the animal to the extent possible for a period of time.
