CDC says to limit contact with animals if diagnosed with COVID-19

[eppur_se_muova]

by: Lauren Harksen
Posted: Mar 16, 2020 / 07:41 PM CDT / Updated: Mar 16, 2020 / 07:41 PM CDT

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Information surrounding the COVID-19 disease is constantly changing, and recommendations for people across the world are too. And while taking care of themselves, many people are asking: "What about my pets?"

The spokesperson for No Kill Huntsville, Aubrie Kavanaugh says now, more than ever, is the time to be responsible for your animals.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says not much is known about COVID-19, but since animals can spread other diseases to people, it's important to consider that with this coronavirus also.

Although there have been no reports of pets or animals getting COVID-19, the CDC recommends that if you are sick with the virus, restrict contact with pets and animals, just like you would with people.

"Just like if you get the flu, don't be hugging and kissing all over your dog and cat and then other people in the house are doing the same thing, because then that way, your pet can be a transmitter just because maybe of something that's on their fur,” said Kavanaugh.

If you test positive for COVID-19, Kavanaugh says you may want to have someone you trust look after your pets temporarily, but don't fill the shelter.
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more: https://whnt.com/news/coronavirus/cdc-says-to-limit-contact-with-animals-if-diagnosed-with-covid-19/

[Ex Lurker]

1. This is where I draw the line nt

[Tanuki]

2. There was that Pomeranian in Hong Kong that tested "weakly positive"....

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.livescience.com/amp/coronavirus-first-case-human-to-dog-transmission.html

[eppur_se_muova]

4. Wow, hadn't heard about that. Thanks for posting.

If this whole thing started by a virus jumping between species (maybe twice), nothing says it can't jump again.

[Aquaria]

3. I've been worried about this.

If it can spread from bats to us, then it can most likely spread to and from other mammals.

Thank goodness my cat is both indoor only, and one of the "aloof" kitties. She likes to be near me, but isn't so fond of the cuddles. That will probably protect both of us.

I do have a trusted source who could watch her if I got sick, though, so I'll exercise that option, if necessary.

[Aquaria]

6. Also:

I'm getting in the habit of washing my hands if I must handle my cat for a prolonged time, before and after, to be on the safe side. Like when I need to carry her somewhere or hold her for more than a minute or two (like when I need to give her the ear meds she's taking right now). I've already been through one kitty death this year. It would kill me if something happened to my new baby.

[Raine]

7. My cat is indoor only too and also aloof

he never allows me to kiss or hug him. 😼 A few pats on the head and that's it, the way things are I guess his aloofness is for the best. 😺

[procon]

5. You know some wretched people are going

dump their pets. I understand not kissing and nuzzling your critters if you might be at risk, but this just breaks my heart.