These days, it can feel as if things are changing by the minute. As the world navigates through the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re experiencing drastic changes to the way we live, work, and connect.
If you’re feeling confused and overwhelmed right now, you’re not alone.
And like many of you, we’ve been watching the news unfold each day and wondering how it may affect our families – including our pups.
Let’s start with some good news.
Can Pets Get COVID-19?
We’re learning more about COVID-19 every day, but here’s some good news that has come from the CDC: there have not been any reports received of pets or other animals getting sick from the virus. Additionally, there is no evidence that animals can spread COVID-19.
As officials have noted, cats and dogs are no more likely to spread the coronavirus than a cell phone or keys. So play on and pet on – just remember to wash your hands after any contact, the same way you would before eating and after going out in public.
What Happened With the Dog in Hong Kong?
You may have seen a news story recently about a Pomeranian in Hong Kong, with reports saying the dog tested positive for the virus and later died. Here are the facts, as outlined in a release from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA):
- While officials did note a weak positive when testing the dog for COVID-19 on February 26th, the dog had not shown any symptoms of the disease.
- On March 12th, additional samples were collected and the results were negative – which indicated there wasn’t a strong immune response to the low levels of the virus found.
- While the virus may have spread from the infected owner to the dog, experts believe the death could have been caused by the stress of being quarantined and separated from its owner.
Again, the CDC has stressed that there is no evidence that pets can contract or spread the virus.
What Should You Do If You Get COVID-19?
The CDC recommends, however, that if you do get sick, it’s best to have someone else take care of your pets until you’ve recovered.
The AVMA echoed this in their release, explaining that precautions should be taken until we know more about the virus overall. So, if possible, have another family member handle walking, feeding, and playtime. If you have a service animal and need to care for your pet on your own, they recommend wearing a facemask, limiting physical contact, and washing your hands immediately after contact.
Maintaining Your Routine With Your Pup
Normal life may be paused right now, but it’s more important than ever to show your pup the same love and care they’re used to!
Here are some tips for staying grounded, healthy, and happy right now:
- Keep to your routine as much as possible – while many cities and states have ordered residents to stay at home, you can absolutely still walk your dog outside. Enjoy some fresh air, just keep your distance from others during your walk.
- Include your pet in your disaster preparation planning – this means having a two-week supply of food, water, and any medications your pet might need.
- Practice good hygiene and wash your hands often – this is especially important after you’ve been outdoors, and should be done after every contact with your pet, e.g. playing or petting.
- Find some indoor activities to keep your pup occupied – keep your dog mentally active with a puzzle toy or treat dispenser.
How Pet Plate Can Help
At Pet Plate, our goal is to ease your stress as much as possible during these uncertain times. Here’s how we can help:
Safe and Secure
- Pet Plate is made in a USDA facility according to the same food safety standards used to produce human food.
- Our food is packaged and sealed while still hot, providing an added layer of protection for you and your pup.
Convenient Deliveries
- Our meals are delivered right to your home and are packed on dry ice, so they’ll keep for several hours on your doorstep.
- Our meals are perfectly portioned for your pup. Your next shipment of meals will arrive before the last shipment runs out.
Peace of Mind
- Our meals can be stored in your freezer for several months, so you can even store a little extra food for your pup if you want to play it safe.
- A fresh-cooked meal is not only good for your pup, but you’ll feel good knowing that you’re doing something special for your furry friend.
Now go give your pup a big hug and some snuggles — just practice good hygiene and wash your hands immediately afterwards! We’re all in this together, including your pets. By showing kindness, staying calm, and being prepared, we’ll get through this.
Looking for more resources? Here are a few we’ve come across:
- Helping Your Dog Survive During a Quarantine, via the New York Times
- COVID-19 Resource, via the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- FAQs via the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Myth-busters, videos, and other resources via the World Health Organization (WHO)
- Pets are Blameless in Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus, via American Humane
