Which Pets Can Get COVID-19?

By Elisa | San Francisco Bay Area Moms

Are you wondering whether your pet can contract the coronavirus or if you can still bring your dog into the vet for a nail trim amid the Shelter-in-Place order? We spoke with a veterinarian to find out what pet owners need to know right now.

Gary Richter, M.S., D.V.M., C.V.C., C.V.A. explained that while cats can get the coronavirus, it’s very rare. Some dogs whose owners were infected have tested positive for antigens, but they haven’t displayed any signs of illness. Importantly, there have not been any cases of companion animals transmitting COVID-19 to their humans.

This being said, Dr. Richter noted that the virus could potentially travel on a pet’s fur. So if an infected person touched a dog, another person could catch COVID-19 from petting that dog. He recommended that no one outside of the pet owner’s quarantine circle (those living with the person) have contact with the pet. If someone does touch your dog while you are on a walk, clean the collar and leash and consider giving your pup a bath.