The Bulletin has received increasing reports of animals being dropped off at animal shelters. The reason for this is that people are scared that their pet/s or their animals will pass COVID-19 on to them.
According to the CDC (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention) they have not received any reports of pets or other animals that were infected with COVID-19. Further studies will have to be conducted to recognise if different animals could be affected by COVID-19 and also how.
What you should know is (taken from the CDC’s website):
- Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people and others cause illness in certain types of animals.
- Coronaviruses that infect animals can become able to infect people, but this is rare.
- Do not know the exact source of the current outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
- Do not have evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19.
- Do not have evidence to suggest that imported animals or animal products imported pose a risk for spreading the 2019 novel coronavirus.
- There is still no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time.
However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals.
- Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies.
- Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly.
- Take pets to the veterinarian regularly and talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.
If you do feel unwell limit your interaction with your pets and other animals. The same you would do with human interaction, self-isolate. Even though there has been no reports of pets or other animals contracting the COVID-19 VIRUS, be safe rather than sorry. This is just a precaution to keep you and your pets or animals healthy.
- Ask another family member in your household to take care of your beloved pet or other animals.
- Try to avoid contact with your pet or other animals i.e. no petting, snuggling, kissing, being licked or sharing food.
- If you have to take care of you pet/s or other animals and you do not feel well, follow basic hygiene by washing your hands properly before and after you have been around or have been interacting with your pet/s or other animals.
Please remember that an animal is for life and part of your family. Please do not use the COVID-19 virus as an excuse to dispose of them.
Remember animals have feelings too!
