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The coronavirus threat is a real problem in Poland and in the world. It is a source of much concern for pet owners, especially dogs and cats. According to the assurances of GIS and WHO, the current data do not indicate that our pets are carrying the coronavirus. However, pet owners should be aware of a few health and safety considerations.
The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus poses a threat to human health and life, but it is not the only pathogen from this group known to medicine. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause disease in many animal species, including the common cold in humans. Some coronaviruses infect animals such as bats, camels and cattle and can spread to humans. This was the case with the SARS and MERS viruses that we got infected from animals. It is suspected that the same happened with SARS-CoV-2.
As for the coronaviruses that infect dogs and cats, according to current medical knowledge, they do not transmit to humans. However, is new koronawirus SARS-CoV-2 can it spread from people to animals and then infect other people this way? There is currently no evidence that dogs or cats can be a source of infection. Although WHO reports that one case of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been detected in Hong Kong so far, there is no indication that pets can spread the disease.
Contact with infected people remains the main source of coronavirus infection.
Read more: Scientists are looking for the source of the coronavirus. What animal did man get infected?
Hygiene rules for pet owners
Even though current reports say that pets do not spread the coronavirus, it is advisable compliance with good hygiene habits. Pet owners should remember the following:
- washing hands before and after contact with an animal;
- remember to wash your hands also in case of contact with food, bowls, other accessories or animal waste;
- thoroughly clean up after animals, as well as disinfect places where they sleep or eat;
- reduce the habit of touching the eyes, mouth and nose as much as possible, especially after contact with animals.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), there are no reports of active COVID-19 disease in pets. There is also no evidence to suggest that imported animals or animal products may increase the risk of spreading the coronavirus.
How to safely walk your dog?
The coronavirus threat rightly encourages the public to follow recommendations that are designed to reduce the risk of the epidemic spreading. Limiting leaving the house is one of the most important indications of sanitary services. How can I safely take my dog for a walk in such a situation?
During walking the dog first of all, avoid contact with other passers-by. If we do meet someone, we should keep a safe distance, i.e. at least 1,5 meters – the more, the safer, especially taking into account the enthusiasm of some dogs at the sight of people or other animals. It is also worth choosing less frequented places for a walk, as well as times of the day when we meet fewer people outside.
It is also worth thinking about washing dog’s paws after a walkespecially if your pet has a habit of sitting on furniture or getting into bed. Any precautions related to animals and our daily habits should be taken seriously until more research on the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and its spread becomes available.
It is also worth following the above recommendations when you take your cat for a walk on a leash.
Can I let cats out of my home?
Some cat owners keep their pets in the apartment so that restrictions on walking out are not a problem. The situation is slightly different in the case of outgoing cats. If the cat has the option of going out to the garden or walking within the plot, there is no need to introduce any restrictions. However, animals that tend to venture beyond the immediate vicinity of the house should be kept at home if possible.
Animal Care – Recommendations for Quarantined People
Subjects quarantine due to coronavirus – regardless of whether they are infected with COVID-19 or suspected of being infected – they should strictly follow specific guidelines. They cannot go outside, so care for the animals should be delegated to other household members. In connection with quarantine, it is recommended not only to completely stop contact with other people, but also with pets.
When it is not possible to completely limit contact with a dog or cat, you should especially disinfect your hands. We should avoid petting and cuddling animals, and not allowing them to lick their hands or face.
Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected]. You will find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers.
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