We join you today to answer some questions and shed light on a subject we know all of you, and us included, are concerned about. And rightly so!
Covid-19 and what that means for you and your Dog.
In the last few months we have had to jump head first into unprecedented times. And whilst we all sit in wait; waiting to emerge into our new normal, it is very easy to experience anxiety & confusion about what actions to take now and in the future regarding you and your Dog.
At the moment, a lot of this will be stemming from the unavoidable amount of information about Covid-19 spilling out from every source possible.
It is difficult to separate fact from fiction in tense times like these and we would always urge you to check sources thoroughly as unfortunately, fake news has the tendency to spread at lightning speed.
Due to this, we at Hounds of Hackney have done the research for you. We have gathered all up to date information regarding various concerns raised about Corona Virus and your Dog.
We hope this information eases any fears you may have so that you can find some peace and relaxation in this turbulent time with your beautiful pooch.
Firstly, it is important to note that most people who will become infected with Covid-19 will be infected by people and not animals – which is why social distancing as well hand washing is so unbelievably important when it comes to fighting this virus.
Globally, there have been a few reports of human to pet transmission BUT these appear to be very isolated incidents. As of April 25th 2020, there have been no reports of animals in the UK with Coronavirus.
Several global health organisations have issued advisories saying there is no any evidence that pet animals can spread coronavirus or indeed be infected with it in the same way as humans.
Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare.
In saying that, taking precautions when it comes to how you handle your dog in your home and out on walks is necessary as this is a rapidly evolving situation and the science and facts based around it will continue to develop.
If you or someone in your household has been infected with Covid-19, it is theoretically possible that traces of the virus could be on your pets coat or skin.
In this case, we would recommend someone else in your home to handle your pet and take care of their needs whilst you are self-isolating and in recovery. If this isn’t possible and you live alone, we would recommend taking precautions such as;
- Wearing a mask when handling any of your Dogs needs
- Wash hands before and after feeding or dealing with your pet in any way – using sanitizer with 60% alcohol and above for safe measure
- Avoid petting, snuggling, kissing or being licked, sharing food and bedding
- Keep your dog on a lead when on walks and do not allow it to come into contact with any other human or be petted in any way
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people or dogs gather
- Maintain a safe distance when outside at all times
The risk of your dog passing it on or becoming infected by someone outside your home and passing it to you is extremely low at this moment but we consider this to be best practise in these uncertain times.
If you are well and self-isolating then you can interact with your dog normally but washing your hands and sanitizing regularly will also help stop other viruses and germs from spreading.
In the same vein, we would also recommend that whilst out and about you adhere to government guidelines when it comes to social distancing with both humans and animals that belong to other people unless it is absolutely necessary.
We understand the emotional repercussions of all of the above and we are all absolutely feeling it!
If we can help in any way at all, please get in contact.