Coronavirus Pet Guidelines

These are strange days for planet Earth. Every day, some new government guidance goes out that alters our way of life. Many pet owners are wondering what that means for their pets, especially since it was announced that some tigers in the Bronx have Covid-19. So, we at Petstore.com did some research and gathered some guidelines about coronavirus and pets to help ease our own pet loving minds and yours. While what follows is expert guidelines, please keep in mind that we are not public health experts and that guidelines and knowledge about the virus are changing all the time.

In trying times, pets are one of our greatest sources of comfort. Animal shelters in many areas are running short on animals as people seek companionship in isolation. The good news is, your pet is incredibly unlikely to become infected or spread Coronavirus. However, here are some common sense guidelines to keep you and yours healthy and happy. Basically, it comes down to what you already know - practice social distancing and good hygiene. 

Have your pet practice social distancing
When you take your dog for a walk, keep it six feet from others and do not allow anyone outside your household pet the dog. (that includes you, crazy lady on the trail who gave a stink face because I wouldn't let you pet my pooch!)

Don't interact with pets outside your household

Practice basic hygiene. Wash before and after handling the pet or any of their supplies

If possible, keep your cat indoors.

If you suspect you are infected

have someone else care for your pet if possible. 

If not, keep your pet indoors and quarantined with you

Avoid close contact (no dog kisses! We're not judging, but seriously)

Wear a face mask to protect your pet

Really, that's it. Basically, keep doing what you are doing, saving the world while watching movies and cuddling your pets on the couch. Just think of your pet as another member of your household, social distancing from other households.

Here are some links and further details. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC) there is currently no evidence that pets can or have spread COVID-19, though there is limited evidence that rare instances of cat or dog infection have occurred outside the US. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, this was two dogs (Hong Kong) and two cats (one in Belgium and one in Hong Kong) living with people infected with Coronavirus. According to Nature, some domestic cats have been infected, but only when intentionally given high doses of virus (poor kitties). Thankfully, none of the infected cats showed any signs of symptoms. So far, these rare animal infections do not appear to be severe or life threatening.  

Disclaimer: we are neither public health experts nor medical professionals. The above guidelines are practical actions we are taking based on expert opinion that do not constitute expert advice. These guidelines are based on the above cited expert health opinions as of April 7, 2020, and are subject to change. (Isn't everything right now?)