Written by Dr. April Finan
Hi Friends,
We’ve had a handful of questions about Coronavirus and your pets. Here’s what we know.
As of today, no animals in the United States have been identified with the virus, and there is no evidence that dogs or other pets can contract or spread COVID-19. Please continue your normal daily activities with your pets. They can socialize as usual.
- Right now, the primary concern is for human health. The virus causes flu-like symptoms in people, including mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
- At this time, experts have not expressed concern about transmission to or from animals. Multiple international health organizations have indicated that pets and other domestic animals are not considered at risk for contracting COVID-19.
- As always, animal owners should continue to include pets and other animals in their emergency preparedness planning, including keeping a two-week supply of food and medications on hand. This is true at all times – not just during the COVID outbreak.
The more pressing issue facing the veterinary field is the shortage of medications and supplies caused by this outbreak. Animal hospitals (and human hospitals) are no longer able to obtain supplies such as surgical masks due to the overwhelming demand for these supplies by the general public.
Please continue to follow the recommendations put forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Wash your hands, don’t touch your face, and stay home if you’re sick. Snuggle up on the couch with your pet!
Call or email if you have any further questions.
