Frequently Asked Questions
about ​COVID-19 and Dogs

Can my dog get COVID-19, or can I get the virus from my dog?
The CDC reports that it has not received any reports of animals becoming sick with COVID-19, and there is no evidence that you can contract the virus from companion animals like dogs. But as the AKC reminds us, dogs are known to spread lots of other diseases and can contract other illnesses from you, so it is always a good idea to wash your hands before and after touching any animal.
While this virus seems to have emerged from an animal source, it is now spreading from person-to-person in China. There is no reason to think that any animals including pets in the United States might be a source of infection with this new coronavirus. To date, CDC has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals including pets can spread COVID-19. However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands after being around animals. For more information on the many benefits of pet ownership, as well as staying safe and healthy around animals including pets, livestock, and wildlife, visit CDC’s Healthy Pets, Healthy People website.
Copied from CDC's Coronavirus 2019 Frequently Asked Questions, 3/15/20
If I am quarantined for exposure or am sick with COVID-19,
​should I be avoiding my pets as well?
The CDC has not reported any animals getting sick from this novel strain of coronavirus. However, much remains unknown about this virus and its transmission. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit contact with your pets if you are sick with COVID-19.
You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask.
Copied from CDC's Coronavirus 2019 Frequently Asked Questions, 3/15/20
How does this affect me and my dog?
Our friends at Wildwood Veterinary Clinic had this sensible advice:
Our advice to pet parents is very similar to that of what your primary physician might recommend and follows closely the guidelines put forth by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. ​

Prevention and Preparation:

  • Wash your hands often and thoroughly, particularly after touching animals.
  • If at all possible, avoid people who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19. These include coughing, sneezing, and trouble breathing.
  • If you’re sick, stay home, and try to avoid close contact with your pet while you’re symptomatic.
  • Stock up on your pet’s medication and food. As the disease progresses around the globe, pharmaceuticals might be hard to come by and in the event of a home quarantine situation, you don’t want to run out of your pet's medication or food, especially if your dog or cats relies on a prescription diet. Visit our online pharmacy to place an order or contact us at (503) 477-4757 for a refill. 
  • Skip the face masks. They don’t really protect you from the virus, and it’s crucial that protective gear be reserved people who really need it, like healthcare workers who regularly come in direct contact with the sick.
Copied from Wildwood Veterinary Clinic newsletter, 3/13/20
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