Coronavirus is not transmitted via Pets. (Last Updated on 19 March 2020)

The number of Coronavirus cases is on the rise and there is panic across the globe on an everyday basis. This global pandemic has not only affected global tourism but has also put a stop to businesses around the world. From Wuhan to India to now in every corner of the world, this outbreak has gripped the world. In this time, we all need to be careful and take necessary precautions to make sure we’re all safe. One of the most frequently talked about topics these days is - how can we take care of our pets during this time? We asked senior veterinarians from Gurugram, Dr Ashok Mahto and Dr Satbir Josan to help us break down the reality and the myth behind this deadly virus. Read on to know more!

What is a virus?

A Virus is an RNA (Ribonucleic acid) and DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) material which is covered by nucleic acid and a protein. Since it is a protein-nucleic acid, it is neither living nor non-living. So, it is a bacteria that travels in our body and causes harm. Living things have the capacity to reproduce and survive without a host. This virus can not reproduce with out the host which is why they are neither living nor non-living.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus is an RNA virus which is touted to be fatal. However, the mortality rate is 3%. But we cannot deny the fact that it is spreading rapidly and the casualties are increasing around the world. This virus looks like a crown hence the name. As we all know, it spreads from one human to another really quickly.

How can we measure the severity of this disease?

In the case of this virus, one infected person can actually infect five others. So, it is highly transmitted which explains why it is rapidly growing. A few symptoms like headache, cough, sore throat, fever or lethargy are quite common during this virus. Elderly people with a weak immune system are at a higher risk of being affected by this virus.

Can dogs transmit Coronavirus?

When a Pomeranian in Hong Kong tested “weakly positive” for Coronavirus last week, pets became a part of this entire situation. Hong Kong’s AFCD explained how the Pomeranian tested “weakly positive” for the virus that detected RNA in his nose and mouth. The dog has really low levels of infection and was then known to be a human-to-animal infection. COVID-19 is as of now and is not believed to be a threat to dogs. WHO reported that there have been no cases of Coronavirus in domestic animals, yet.

Can dogs catch Coronavirus?

Dogs have a different strain of coronavirus which is Canine Coronavirus (CCoV) and not Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The symptoms in humans are in a respiratory form where we catch a cold, cough or have breathing issues. But the Canine Coronavirus (CCoV) in dogs is mostly in the form of gastroenteritis. This means, the dog starts vomiting and has diarrhoea. Sometimes, in extreme cases, there's blood in the poop.

What can we do to protect our pets from this virus?

For now, pet owners can just follow basic hygiene precautions like washing their hands before and after interacting with their pets. You can also wash your pet’s paws before and after stepping out of the house. Dogs don’t really need to wear a mask.

Busting the myth…

There has been fake news circulating on Whatsapp on a regular basis creating panic and anxiety in pet owners. Please don’t believe everything you read online and stay updated after proper research on WHO website,

https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses

Keep yourself out of overcrowded places and follow a basic hygiene routine to keep yourself and your pets safe.

Here’s a video that will give you a better insight. Stay safe, everyone!