The COVID-19 coronavirus is rapidly spreading across the globe, and there are reports of pets being abandoned en-mass with people fearing their dog or cat could spread the infection to their family.

In this special episode, I discuss the risk that your pet poses to your health, as well as how you can better prepare your pet for the events that are to come.

Be aware too that this is a rapidly changing situation. Head over to this post that I will keep updated with the latest COVID-19 information as it relates to your pet and their care.

Can dog’s spread coronavirus:

• 1 dog in Hong Kong is felt to have developed a very low level of infection having caught the disease from their coronavirus-infected owner
• Swabs have only ever come back with a weak positive result, and antibody testing has so far come back as negative. This suggests that the risk of a person becoming infected from their pet is very, very low.
• Pet owners should not be overly concerned (wash hands, don’t let your pet lick your face, practice good hygiene) and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.

Preparing your pet for COVID-19:

• Make sure you have an appropriate level of supplies including food, litter and any medication your pet might need. Don’t hoard, just ensure that you are not waiting until you have run out before buying more
• Ensure you have a backup carer in place. Do you have a plan if you are taken to the hospital at short notice? Do they have a key, and are they aware of your pet’s medical requirements? Have you confirmed they will be happy to do this given the current situation?

Seeking veterinary care during the pandemic:

• Call ahead on the day to check your appointment is running as planned and to check for any new instructions
• Consider delaying any non-essential visits, and if you do need to visit the vet clinic then only have 1 family member take your pet.
• If you are unwell with and symptoms of coronavirus than ask someone else to take your pet in.

For more details head over to the full show notes

Stay safe everyone

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