Amid the increasing number of cases and deaths of the coronavirus, one news caused more hearts to become worried and feel even sadder. This was after a dog in Hong Kong was tested "weakly positive" with the virus.
The news about the Pomeranian that became positive with the SARS-CoV-2 virus quickly spread among dog lovers and fur parents all around the globe. This case led to some questions, generally about how pets and owners should act amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Amid all those concerns, Shelley Rankin, a microbiologist at the University Of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, shared a couple of truths regarding pets and the coronavirus. Here are some of those she shared, as posted by the Science Mag.
CAN THE CORONAVIRUS BE PASS ON TO OUR PETS?
Though samples of the virus were found from the Hong Kong dog, the little doggie still didn't show any signs of the disease. Given this situation, the experts were unable to conclude whether the virus has truly infected the Pom's little body or not. Due to this, researchers are still planning to conduct more studies regarding this case in the future.
Meanwhile, it is better for people inflicted with the virus to keep their distance from their pets and limit their contact with them. Better practice good hygiene, wash your hands often and never let them lick your face as your body secretions can still be the mode to transfer the virus.
CAN OUR PETS PASS THE VIRUS BACK TO US?
Once our pets become infected with the virus, there is a possibility that they will become a "reservoir" of the virus and could inflict humans too. If an instance like this will happen in the future, Rankin emphasized how important it is to find a cure for them too. She even advice pet hospitals to be prepared if something like this would happen.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO TO PROTECT YOUR PETS AMID THE CORONAVIRUS?
The coronavirus can be spread through droplets and surfaces, as explained by the University of California San Francisco. Given this, cleaning and disinfecting your place is still the best thing you can do to prevent the virus to envelop not just your family but your whole household as well.
Also, it is better to keep your pets inside your premises to avoid possible transmission outside. Let him play and do his daily exercises inside your yard or house for a while. Better be safe than sorry.
Also, make sure to always keep an extra pet food for your beloved furry friend. We will never know what will happen, so you should always be ready for stocks.
