Okay, so we have all heard about a few cases of pets having Covid-19. Pets are not spreading the virus to other humans, however we still need to take the same precautions that we do with other humans with our pets. Below are some of the things that we can do to keep us and out pets safe and healthy.
- Limit your pet’s interactions with other people and large groups.
- Keep your dog on a maximum 6 feet leash when walking them.
- Keep cats indoors.
- Do NOT put a mask on your pet, and do NOT put disinfectant or alcohol or hydrogen peroxide on your pets fur or skin.
If you (the human) are sick with Covid-19:
- Restrict or avoid direct contact with your pet. This includes petting, licking, kissing and snuggling!
- If possible, have another person take care of your pets while you are sick.
- If you have to take care of your pet while you are sick, always wear a mask when dealing with your pet, and wash your hands before and after your interaction with your pet.
If you are sick and you suspect that your pet might be sick:
- Avoid contact with other humans and other pets.
- Call your vet. Do NOT go to your vet! Most vets are not even letting people and their pets into the facility. Most vets are coming out to your car to get the pet. But if you are sick with Covid-19, the vet may be able to help you over the phone or with a telehealth “visit”.
- If you must have direct contact with your pet, wash your hands after touching pets, their food, their waste, or other things your pet may be in contact with.
- Definitely keep sick pets away from vulnerable people such as young children and people with weakened immune systems, and people 65 years of age and older.
The research so far shows that there is a small risk that humans can spread Covid-19 to animals, but a very low risk of pets passing Covid-19 to humans. It is still important to practice all of the recommendations that we have for human to human interaction with our pets as well.
Comfy Critters will take all of the precautions that is suggested and/or required by the CDC and the Governor. We will always wear a mask during a meet and greet. We will always wear gloves and/or use baby wipes. We will wipe down every place we touched in your home with Lysol or something similar to Lysol. I myself took a Covid-19 Certification Course for Petsitters and Dogwalkers through Petsitters International (PSI) and me and my staff will be implementing safety protocols with new clients as well as current clients.