Covid – Update

NZVA website information

Can animals catch coronavirus?

Probably not. There is no strong evidence that animals can spread coronavirus to humans.
A person with COVID-19 may sneeze or shed the virus onto the fur of animals which could spread the virus to other people. You may see veterinarians taking more precautions with personal protective equipment when dealing with patients, however this is the same as them being more careful about contact with surfaces that may have been contaminated.

What about that dog in Hong Kong?

In late February a dog was tested and the results showed a “weak positive” for coronavirus. The first set of blood tests done on the dog have tested negative. At the moment it is not showing any clinical signs. It is unclear what exactly all this means but it is believed this may be a case of a human transmitting the disease to a dog (and not the other way round). There is still no evidence of animals posing a risk of spreading coronavirus.

What should I do to protect my animal?

At this stage, the best thing you can do is practice good hygiene. The risk of your animal catching coronavirus is very low and there is no evidence that it could give it to you. However, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with animals.

What should I do if my animal gets sick?

As always, talk to your vet and follow their advice. If you can, ring them first, particularly if you are unwell, have been in contact with someone who is unwell or are self-isolating. It may be best to arrange for someone else to take your animal to the vet if it needs to be seen so that you can remain isolated.

What should I do for my animal if someone in my home gets coronavirus or is in isolation?

If you or someone in your home is in isolation, the same process applies for animals as human members of the household.

If the person in isolation has not had close contact with the animal during the isolation period or the 2 weeks before that, they should try to minimise their contact with it and other household members. If possible, find someone who is well and not in isolation to help care for the animal. If the isolated person has to do it, they should wash their hands before and afterwards and wear a facemask (this is recommended by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association).