The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic in March 2020. The disease is caused by a coronavirus. Scientists suspect that the virus might have originated from animals and spread to humans. The first infection was linked to a live animal market in Wuhan, China. The disease is now spreading from person to person.
The coronavirus is a family of viruses that infects both animals and humans. A certain group of coronavirus only affects cattle, camels, and bats. But some other groups may affect both humans and animals. Coronaviruses like feline and canine coronaviruses only infect animals.
Does COVID-19 Affect Dogs?
Certain types of coronaviruses like canine respiratory coronavirus can infect your dogs. But the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is not believed to be a threat to your dog’s health. According to the World Health Organization, no evidence shows dogs, cats, or other pet animals can transmit novel coronavirus to humans. Until today, there are no reported cases of pet dogs affected by COVID-19.
Can Dogs Spread Coronavirus?
Scientists are cautioning pet owners to be vigilant about their health and the health of their dogs because dogs can transmit coronavirus to humans. If your dog comes in contact with a person infected with coronavirus, then the dog can be a carrier of the virus and it needs to be isolated. The same will be in the case of other pet animals like cats, parrots, etc.
In Hong Kong, two dogs are tested positive for COVID-19, whose owners were earlier tested positive for the virus. Experts are characterizing this as a case of human-to-animal transmission. But still, there is no current evidence that pet animals can become sick from the novel coronavirus or can be a source of infection.
Stay Healthy Around Your Dog
Even if there are no reported cases of COVID-19 transmission from animals to humans, it is better to take necessary precautions because all animals can carry germs that cause diseases. In the United States, no cases are reported on animals being infected with COVID-19. Even though it is better to stay safe and wash your hands after petting your dogs; it is normal hygiene.
The dog owners must wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after you take your dogs for a walk. It is also better to wear a face mask while walking your dogs. Buy face mask online to ensure a better quality product. Also, make sure that you are walking your dog through a less crowded area or walk your dogs at less busy times of the day.
