No risk of C-19 in pets, experts say

Currently there is no evidence that companion animals can be infected with or spread COVID-19, according to Sonoma Animal Hospital.

Though research continues, experts have not expressed concern about transmission to or from pets and other domestic animals, the SAH said in an update, echoing advice from the American Medical Veterinary Association.

The canine coronavirus vaccines available at some veterinary hospitals are intended to protect against enteric coronavirus infection. Using this vaccine in the face of the current outbreak does not provide cross-protection against COVID-19.

For more information about COVID-19 and pets, read this article from the American Medical Veterinary Association. AAHA has also provided helpful information on the disease, which can be found here.

The main takeaway: Infectious disease experts and multiple international and domestic human and animal health organizations agree there is no evidence at this point to indicate that pets become ill with COVID-19 or that they spread it to other animals, including people.

As for pet owners themselves, “if you are exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness, please stay home and avoid contact with other people,” says the SAH alert. “You will recover faster and help prevent others from becoming sick as well. Additionally, if your pet needs medical attention, and if you’ve recently been in contact with someone that is sick, please arrange for someone else to bring your pet in.