A recent rise in COVID-19 cases in NSW has Dog Owners all over the country wondering how to protect and care for their pets. Is there a risk that infected Owners can pass the virus along to their pet? How can Owners ensure that they’re meeting their pet’s needs while in home isolation? And, what is the protocol for pet emergencies and vet visits for Owners who have tested positive for COVID-19?
Let’s take a look at some of the most pressing questions you may have about caring for your pet during this latest coronavirus surge.
Can pets get COVID-19?
Yes, according to the Australian Veterinary Association, there have been documented cases of cats and dogs contracting SARS-CoV-2 infection since the start of the pandemic in 2020. But, as they’re quick to point out, none of these cases have been identified in Australia, and from what we know of the cases in other countries, the infected animals showed very mild or no symptoms.
In the rare cases that pets do show symptoms of a COVID-19 infection, you may notice one or more of the following:
- Respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and laboured breathing
- Watery eyes and running nose
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Decrease in energy levels and general tiredness
- Fever
If these symptoms arise from COVID-19, they are typically mild and will go away on their own. But, it’s important to rule out any other possible health conditions to make sure your pet isn’t suffering from something more serious.
Are immunocompromised pets at higher risk for COVID-19 complications?
If you have a senior pet or a pet with existing health conditions, you may find yourself more worried about how COVID-19 could affect them. To be sure, any viral infection in a pet with a weakened immune system is dangerous, and there have been some documented cases of SARS-CoV-2 leading to respiratory complications in cats with existing health conditions. That said, research is very limited, and in general, it’s accepted that this coronavirus does not negatively affect pets as readily as it does in humans.
Can pets spread coronavirus?
Even though pets can contract this coronavirus from humans, it seems that the virus does a poor job of replicating in domestic animal hosts. This is good news because it means that the chances of your pet contracting COVID-19 and spreading it to other humans or pets is very low.
What should you do if you test positive for COVID-19?
As we’ve covered so far, our pets are not at high risk of contracting, developing symptoms, or spreading COVID-19. But, it’s still recommended that Pet Owners take precautions if they themselves have tested positive for this coronavirus. Here are a few of the official Australia Government guidelines to safe home isolation with your pet:
- Limit physical contact with your pet. It’s entirely understandable that you would want to curl up with Fido if you’re sick at home with COVID-19. But the experts recommend against it. Sharing food, kisses, cuddles, and the bed can all increase your pet’s risk of getting sick.
- Avoid going for walks. One of the biggest challenges of isolating with a dog is not being able to take them out for regular walks. If you do not have an outdoor space that is safe for you to access while isolating, make sure to have puppy pads in the home and reward your dog for toileting inside.
- Practice good hygiene when coming into contact with your pet or your pet’s supplies. At this point in the pandemic, we’ve all become pros at hand-washing and proper cleaning practices. And, this should continue if you’re isolating at home with a pet. Wash your hands before handling pet food and toys and keep hand sanitizer at the ready for when you’ll be in contact with your pet. You may also want to wear a face mask when handling pet food, grooming your pet, or any other activities that bring you into close contact with your pet.
- Consider allowing a family member, friend or professional Pet Sitter to take your pet while you isolate. You will, of course, want to eliminate contact with other people while you isolate, which is why it’s not recommended that you have anyone come over to take your dog out for walks. That said, it may be a good idea to arrange for someone to pet sit your dog or cat for the entire duration of your home isolation. This will limit your pet’s exposure to the virus while also allowing them to continue getting outdoor exercise.
- Have a plan for your pet in the case that you need to be hospitalized. Even if you will be isolating at home with your pet, you’ll still want to have a plan in place in case you need to move from home isolation to the hospital. Have a bag of your pet’s supplies ready and make possible arrangements ahead of time.
What should you do if your pet needs to go to the vet?
As you might have assumed already, all regularly planned check-ups and visits to the vet should be rescheduled until after your home isolation. But, what should you do if your pet starts to feel unwell?
Your first step should be to call your vet. Let them know that you are isolating with a positive case of COVID-19 so that they can determine the best course of action. Your vet may be able to offer services over the phone for mild conditions, arrange for a socially-distanced housecall, or make other arrangements that will keep their patients and staff safe.
Are there going to be COVID-19 vaccines for pets?
You might have heard rumours about a COVID-19 vaccine for pets, but as of right now, there are no immediate plans for approval or roll-out. In fact, because the SARS-CoV-2 virus does not pose a significant risk for pets, it’s likely that we won’t see a vaccine any time soon.
Instead, the best way to keep your furry friend from contracting COVID-19 is to avoid getting it yourself and practicing safety measures around your pet if you do test positive!
Final tips on meeting your pet’s needs during this time
Without a doubt, our pets have been a huge help for many of us during the challenges of the last few years. And that’s why we all want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep them healthy and happy during this time. Here are a few last-minute suggestions that will help your cat or dog feel more comfortable if you do isolate with them:
- Stock up on their favourite treats. You won’t be able to pop by your local pet shop for more goodies during your home isolation, so make sure to stock up ahead of time. Same goes for food and any medication they may be taking.
- Keep them mentally stimulated. Having a pet to keep you company may help your home isolation go by quicker, but it’s also incredibly important to find the right boredom-busters for your pet, too. Take a look at our article, 5 Ways to Mentally Stimulate Your Dog, for some ideas.
- If keeping them separate, provide them with plenty of creature comforts. If you’ll be keeping your dog in a separate part of the house, you can make them feel more at ease with mentally stimulating toys and blankets or articles of clothing that smell like you.
- Take them into the garden or outdoor space if it is safe for you to do so. If you have access to a private outdoor space, such as a garden or courtyard, the Department of Health says that you are allowed to access it during home isolation. So, give your pup and yourself some much-needed outdoor time daily.
Finally, while home isolation is difficult for everyone, try to remember that it may be even more of a challenge for our animals. Not only are pets sensitive to changes in general, but they may feel especially anxious given that dogs can sense when their humans are sick. And, without their regular exercise schedule, this could leave you with a doggo who isn’t as well-behaved as usual. Have patience, stick to a regular routine, and give them as much mental stimulation as possible. Your home isolation will be over before you know it!
More questions about how to care for your pets if you have COVID?
Here at Mad Paws, we want to make sure all members of our community are safe! We’re staying up-to-date on the latest guidelines for Pet Owners and are happy to chat with you about how to keep your pet healthy and happy during this time.
