COVID-19 Infection in Pets: As the number of COVID cases rise, a big concern that is bothering all pet-parents is how to take care of your pets if they are down with COVID. Many are also worried if pets can be the carrier of the deadly virus. Here, we try to address some of these concerns.
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, a few pets including cats and dogs have been infected with the coronavirus. This happened mostly after the animals were in close contact with people infected with the COVID-19 virus.
Based on information available so far, the risk of animals spreading the COVID-19 virus to people is considered low, says several international health organisations.
What is increasingly becoming a cause of worry is the fact that many pets are losing their foster parents or owners. Finding homes for them is becoming a challenge.
Here is what you have to do to keep your pet safe:
* Don't let your pet interact with people or animals outside your household.
* Avoid dog parks or public places where many people and dogs gather.
* When walking your pet, make sure your pet wears a leash and keep your dog at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people and animals.
* Keep pets indoors when possible.
If you become sick with COVID-19 and have a pet...
* Isolate yourself from everyone else, including your pet.
* If possible, have another person in your household care for your pet.
* Avoid petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding with your pet.
* If your pet has to see the vet, do a video call with the vet or request a friend or family to take the pet to the vet
* Wash your hands before and after handling your pet's food, waste and supplies.
* Make sure you clean up after your pet.