on 12th March 2020 , the World Health Organization has said that there was no evidence that animals such as dogs or cats could be infected with coronavirus. But now, that section is gone.
The World Health Organization told in an email that, “currently, there is no evidence that pets such as dogs and cats have infected humans with Covid-19.”
Actually their stance changed when an infected dog was found in Hong Kong. The dog was tested positive Covid-19 after remaining with its owners who was sick with the virus. That time the dog was not showing any symptoms, according to a report from World Organisation for Animal Health. There’s no evidence that dogs can spread the disease or that the disease can cause an animal to fall ill, the organization says, though further studies may bring new findings. Here is the comment from report.
“The dog was placed under quarantine on 26 February 2020 after its owner was hospitalised due to COVID-19 infection. Following veterinary examination nasal, oral, rectal swabs as well as faeces were taken after the dog’s admission to the quarantine facility. Nasal and oral samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. The dog has not exhibited any specific clinical signs. Follow up nasal, oral and rectal swab samples and faeces were subsequently taken on 28 February and 2 and 5 March 2020. Both oral and nasal samples taken on 28 February 2020 tested positive. The nasal samples taken on 2 & 5 March continued to test positive. Investigation is ongoing. Risk management measures are in place for this case, including cleansing and disinfection of the premises, and proper personal hygiene and protection. Mammalian pets from households with confirmed human cases of COVID-19 will be be placed under quarantine and veterinary surveillance for 14 days. Samples will be collected for testing of SARS-CoV-2 as appropriate.”
The pet owners infected or susceptible of being infected with the virus has been advised to avoid any sort of close contact with their pets and have another member of the household care for the animals. If they must look after their pet, they should maintain good hygiene practices and wear a face mask if possible. More information regarding pet health amid the epidemic click on this link. Frequently asked questions on coronovirus link to animals.
Shelley Rankin, a microbiologist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, advises pet owners include animals in their family’s preparedness planning. She told that some animals might be quarantined in a hospital, or at home.
