PSA - COVID / FEB 1, 2022

Just had an interesting call from a gentleman who found a dog, but also tested positive for Covid today.

We contacted Heath Authorities and thought we would share what they sent us.

Pets and health
COVID-19 and animals
There have been cases of COVID-19 in domestic pets such as dogs and cats that have been infected with the COVID-19 virus after close contact with an infected individual. The number of cases in domestic pets has remained very low and the virus primarily transmits from person to person.
There have been no reports of cases where household pets or livestock have transmitted the virus to people. There have been several reports of transmission of the COVID-19 virus from infected mink to humans that work with farmed mink.
The virus that causes COVID-19 most likely originated from an animal source in China, however, it now spreads from person-to-person when there is direct contact and, with the exception of farmed mink, not from contact with pets or livestock.
How can I protect my pet if I am infected with COVID-19?
Individuals infected with COVID-19 should limit contact with their pets during their illness. The best option is to have another member of the household care for their animals. If an infected person must care for animals, then they should wash their hands before and after interacting with their animals, their food and supplies. They should avoid close contact with their pet such as snuggling or letting them sleep in their bed. Restrict your animal’s contact with individuals outside your home until your illness has resolved. If there is no one available to care for your animal (e.g. pet owner is hospitalized and does not have a family member to care for their pet), then arrange for temporary housing of your pet at an animal shelter. Shelters should take the necessary precautions when handling pets from COVID-19 positive households.
What should I do if my pet becomes ill and was around a person with COVID-19?
If your pet becomes ill after exposure to a person with COVID-19, and you require veterinary advice, call your veterinarian and let them know that your sick pet was exposed to a person with COVID-19. Your veterinarian will discuss with you how to manage the situation. Your pet should remain at home to minimize contact with other animals and people. Dogs that may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus should be kept on a leash or within a private fenced area when taken outside for elimination activities, and kept away from other animals and people for 14 days after the start of your pet’s illness.
Is there a vaccination against COVID-19 that my pet can receive?
No. Currently, there are no vaccines against COVID-19 available for domestic pets. There is absolutely no evidence that vaccinating dogs with commercially available vaccines for other coronaviruses will provide cross-protection against COVID-19.