Can My Dog Get Coronavirus ?

Since the World Health Organisation declared the 2019 novel coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) a global health emergency, you might have been wondering if this virus could be transmitted to your dog or other pets.

The answer is no. and yes.

The World Health Organisation (WHO), World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have all stated that they do not believe this current strain of coronavirus (Covid 19) that has been affecting humans, can be passed from humans to companion animals, or from animals to humans. However, they do suggest that if your pet has been in contact with a person who has been confirmed to have coronavirus, that you should call your veterinarian to discuss your next steps.

Despite not believing to be susceptible to the Covid-19 strain of coronavirus, both cats and dogs can be infected with other types of coronavirus. One type that affects dogs is canine respiratory coronavirus, which can cause an acute upper respiratory infection. Feline enteric coronavirus, which is one type that affects cats, can, on rare occasions, lead to a cat developing a disease known as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

Both types of coronavirus that can affect dogs are more commonly found in places where large numbers of dogs are housed together, such as in shelters or kennels. There are vaccines available to protect your dog against coronavirus infection, but you should speak to your veterinarian about whether your dog requires these vaccines.

Feline coronavirus is a fairly common viral infection in cats. Most cats that are infected do not show any symptoms. Those that do usually suffer from vomiting or diarrhoea. Just like in dogs, it spreads easily between cats that are living in close contact such as in a shelter or kennel. The best way to prevent the spread of coronavirus between cats is to regularly scoop litter boxes and to use appropriate disinfectants when cleaning. A vaccine for coronavirus in cats is available in the USA, Canada and Europe but is not recommended by the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP).

There are some simple steps you can follow to prevent the spread of illness to your pet. If you or others who care for your pets are unwell, you should avoid handling your pets or wear a face mask if you must be around animals. Thorough hand washing with soap and water for around 20 seconds is always recommended after handling animals to prevent the spread of bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. To prevent the spread of highly contagious viruses and bacteria between animals, protective wear such as disposable aprons and shoe covers are also recommended.

If after reading this article you are still concerned about how coronavirus could affect your pet, the best person to speak to is your veterinarian.

Originally published at http://blog.canadavet.com on February 26, 2020.