A veterinarian has called on pet owners to exercise common sense when interacting with their animals during the coronavirus pandemic. Dr Anne Fawcett from the University of Sydney's School of Veterinary Science emphasised that the virus spreads through human-to-human transmission, not via companion animals like dogs or cats.
Dr Fawcett advised pet owners to wash their hands before and after touching any animal and to treat pets as part of the family bubble during isolation. She recommended avoiding close contact such as kissing or burying your face in your pet's fur. If a family member is infected, minimal contact with pets is encouraged, and alternative care should be arranged if possible.
Globally, only two cats and two dogs have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, all living with infected owners. Professor Jacqui Norris from the University of Sydney confirmed that these pets were not involved in spreading the infection to humans. Sydney GP Dr Ginni Mansberg also reassured the public that there are no cases of humans contracting the virus from their pets.
The RSPCA reiterated that there is no evidence of coronavirus in animals being passed to humans. Pet owners are still able to walk their dogs while maintaining social distancing, and vets remain open as an essential service, though owners should call ahead and wait outside during examinations.
