Should I Be Worried About My Pet Getting the Coronavirus From Dog Grooming Houston?

07/16/2020 by WebiMax Admin

If you’re looking for dog grooming Houston, you may be concerned about your pet contracting the novel coronavirus. Though there’s ample information about the virus’s threat to humans, data on its impact on domesticated animals is more sparse. Here’s everything you need to know to keep yourself, your family, and your furry companions safe during the pandemic.

What Is SARS-CoV-2?                                  

SARS-CoV-2 is the shortened form of the novel coronavirus’s official name: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. This differentiates it from the previously discovered viruses, such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS). Although sometimes used interchangeably, SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 are two different things; SARS-CoV-2 is the name of the virus, and COVID-19 is the name of the disease it causes. It is possible, therefore, to have antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 due to exposure, without developing COVID-19.

Can Pets Get the Virus?

Pets can Get the Virus

Pets can contract SARS-CoV-2, though it impacts the various species differently. For example, dogs have tested positive for the virus on several occasions but didn’t develop COVID-19. Cats, on the other hand, have been recorded experiencing respiratory symptoms for months after contracting the virus.

While there is more study to be done, the consensus is that, while possible for dogs and cats to contract the virus, they are much less likely to do so than humans.

Can Pets Catch the Virus From Other Animals?

As far as researchers know, the cats and dogs that tested positive for the coronavirus didn’t contract it from other animals, nor did they pass it to other animals. There is evidence that the virus is unable to replicate in dogs, implying that their systems aren’t suitable for viral reproduction. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about getting the virus from your pets. While more research is needed to understand why the SARS-CoV-2 doesn’t pose as much of a risk for pets, scientists are confident that animal-to-human transmission isn’t something to be worried about.

Can Pets Catch the Virus From Me?

The biggest risk to pets during the pandemic is human-to-animal contact. SARS-CoV-2 is spread via respiratory droplets, which are released into the air when we cough, sneeze, or speak. Cats and dogs can come into contact with these droplets and, as a result, the virus.

However, it’s important to note that contact such as petting or scratching doesn’t pose an exposure threat. By extension, businesses that offer dog boarding Houston can be perfectly safe for pets as long as they have protocols to minimize risk.

What Are the Symptoms of Coronavirus in Pets?

Symptoms of Coronavirus in Pets

Most of the dogs tested were asymptomatic. However, several domestic and big cats that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 experienced the following symptoms:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Coughing
  • Lethargy

Can I Get My Pet Tested?

At this time, officials don’t recommend getting your pet tested. With the high demand for testing for humans, there aren’t any opportunities to test animals outside of formal studies, which are few and far between at this time.

What Treatments Are Available If My Pet Is Infected?

There are currently no official treatments for animals infected with SARS-CoV-2. If you suspect your pet is ill, you should take it to the veterinarian for a formal diagnosis. The good news is, since all recorded infections have thus far been mild, your pet’s condition may be easily treatable with approaches routinely used to resolve other respiratory issues. Please note that with the low transmission rates between humans and animals, if your dog or cat is experiencing respiratory distress, it’s most likely another, more common condition.

How Can I Prevent My Pet From Becoming Infected?

The most important thing you can do to protect your pet is to protect yourself. To avoid contracting SARS-CoV-2, follow CDC and WHO guidelines:

  • Wear a mask when in public areas
  • Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from others
  • Sterilize frequently-used surfaces such as faucets, doorknobs and light switches
  • Wash your hands often

If you believe you’ve been exposed to the virus, maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from your pet, and wear a mask. Wash your hands before you touch your pet and skip the kisses for at least two weeks.

During the pandemic, our pets have played an important role in lifting our spirits, keeping us entertained, and helping us feel loved and connected. That’s why the Dog House Pet Salon is closely following government guidelines when offering dog training, dog grooming Houston and other services. For more information, give us a call at 713-820-6140 or contact us online.

 

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Should I Be Worried About My Pet Getting the Coronavirus From Dog Grooming Houston? | The Dog House Pet Salon | Houston, TX