Look around. The Covid-19 pandemic has coined a number of new phrases and terminologies that no one would have really predicted or anticipated. Things like ‘social distancing’, ‘positive case vs. presumptive case’, or ‘Covid-19 pandemic bubble’ would have sounded alien a year ago, yet we are now so accustomed to them to the extent that they are now second nature. However, as much as our vernacular has changed and is expected to change as we continue to battle this novel virus, one thing has remained constant throughout – our love for our pets.
Which, of course, begs the question: Are our pets safe from the virus in the unfortunate event that we get infected? Well, let’s see.
Symptoms of Covid-19 in Dogs and Cats
So far, there has been a number of cats and dogs who have tested positive for the novel virus – two cats in New York State and a pug from North Carolina. Each of them fell ill after being exposed to close family members who had previously also tested positive. According to the pet owners, the animals expressed symptoms such as gagging, mild cough/flu, and a dip in their appetite. It’s also worth noting that they all made full recoveries despite being ill for a couple of days.
Is a Covid-19 Vaccine for Dogs and Cats?
Presently, at the time of this post, there isn’t yet a working vaccine for animals but there are several that have been approved for human use. So, it goes without saying that the best way to protect your beloved pet would be by getting the immunization jab sooner rather than later.
Your Favorite Pooch Can Now Get Tested for Coronavirus
Thanks to the efforts of Idexx Laboratories and the CDC, it is now possible to have your favorite furry companion tested for the virus, if not for anything else then for your peace of mind. The availability of the PCR SARS test for pets is however not as widely available as the one meant for humans. Hence, it pays to get tested more frequently in an effort to protect your pet from contracting the virus from you or other family members.
Isolate Yourself from Your Pets in the Unfortunate Event that You Test Positive for Covid-19
If you are confirmed to have Covid-19, then it is in your pet’s best interest to avoid direct contact with them until you are handed a clean bill of health by the doctors.
References: News Medical, RIVM, Healthline.
