Despite the fact that many specialists link the origin of the coronavirus to a hybridization of the viruses of bats and snakes, the truth is that it is not yet clear what started this pandemic that is plaguing the world, nor is there any link that determines that animals are sources of contagion or that affects them in any way.
Some organizations realize that this virus is only transmitted between humans and that animals are not contagious or carriers of it. Thus, there would be no reason to think that our pets can be a source of infection or that they are in danger like people.
From the World Health Organization – WHO, they say that, given the information that is currently available, there is not enough evidence that viruses can affect pets, which could give some comfort to the owners of pets.
According to the College of Veterinarians of Barcelona, dogs and cats are susceptible to diseases caused by other viruses of the same family, but not specifically by Covid-19, the name by which this type of coronavirus is known and to the cause of the current problems.
With these data, it is possible to infer that domestic animals are not at the same risk as exposed people. However, it is necessary to take into account certain tips in order to prevent any complication that may lead to health problems for our pets.
Tips to avoid contact of the virus with pets
Like people, it is convenient to avoid contact of the animal with those people who have been diagnosed with coronavirus. This, because there are other types of coronaviruses that can cause disease in animals, so limiting contact is the best form of prevention.
If we have a patient who has tested positive for coronavirus at home and interaction with the animal is unavoidable, it is necessary that the affected person wear masks at all times, including when he is near the animal. In these cases, it is not necessary to put masks on the animal.
All other measures to prevent the spread of the virus are applied in the same way for the care of the pet. Thus, it is necessary to interact as little as possible with the animal and disinfect the objects that are used to feed it, as well as the leash and the area in which it sleeps.
It is convenient to clean the legs of the animal when entering the home each time it is removed to relieve itself, and, if possible, disinfect the pads with alcohol.
There is no need to carry out any diagnostic tests on the pet, nor to carry out any special care for the animal. Anyway, it is advisable to maintain fluid communication with the vet, to clear any doubts that may arise.
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