Coronavirus: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Pets

The recent outbreak of COVID-19, commonly known as “the coronavirus” has caused a great deal of concern among pet owners and veterinarians. The CDC defines coronaviruses as “a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals.” Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people and then spread between people. The main symptoms of the virus include fevers, coughs, and shortness of breath. The disease is known to mainly affect older adults and those with serious chronic medical conditions. Since this particular strain of the illness is relatively new, there are a whole lot of questions that accompany the public’s concerns. Pet owners, animal lovers, and those who work in close proximity to animals may ask the questions “Can pets get coronavirus?” and “How can I prevent my pet from getting sick with it?”. While the status of this illness is changing and new information continues to arise, we have compiled information from reliable sources to answer these questions with the knowledge available at this time.

Can I Get Coronavirus From My Pet?

The virus likely emerged from an animal source, but there’s no reason to believe that animals and pets are a source of infection, according to the CDC. There is no evidence that supports that animals can spread the virus to humans. However, since humans have been able to contract other diseases from animals in the past, experts recommend that pet owners and handlers wash hands after interacting with animals as a precaution.

Can Pets Get Coronavirus?

Many of us who own beloved pets are likely to feel worried during these times of uncertainty. We may want to call up our vets, local news sources, or take to google to ask: “Can pets get coronavirus?” To answer the question on many pet owners' minds- it is unlikely. So far, the CDC has not received reports of pets or companion animals sick with the coronavirus, and there is no evidence that they become very sick if infected at all. However, The CDC says that anyone who is sick with the coronavirus should restrict contact with animals, just like you would around other people.

What Should I Do About Coronavirus and My Pets?

If someone in the household does become sick with coronavirus, an uninfected person should care for them instead. Infected people should also avoid petting, snuggling, kissing, being licked by, and sharing food with pets. If interaction with pets is a must, infected caretakers should wear a mask and wash hands before and after handling pets. Experts of the disease encourage pet owners to take their pets to their trusted veterinarians to vaccinate their pets. While there is no vaccine for coronavirus yet, getting your pet vaccinated for all other illnesses will decrease the likelihood that they become sick, making them less susceptible to the unwanted coronavirus. In these times filled with trepidation and the unknown, it is best to be as safe and proactive as possible. Call Bregman Vet Group today to schedule your pet’s immunizations and keep their immune system strong enough to fight off any infection!

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4 Ways to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy As They Age

Thanks to the advances of modern medical technology, people and their pets are living longer, healthier lives. As your dog ages, you will need to make some changes in how you care for them in order to ensure that they are healthy and happy.

 According to the American Medical Veterinary Association, dog owners should: “Talk to your veterinarian about how to care for your older pet and be prepared for possible age-related health issues. Senior pets require increased attention, including more frequent visits to the veterinarian, possible changes in diet, and in some cases alterations to their home environment.” You can make changes as your dog ages that can help them live a long, healthy life.

Age Is Relative

In general, dogs are considered seniors around age seven, although larger dogs tend to have shorter life spans than smaller dogs. One important thing to keep in mind is that being of advanced age isn’t an ailment. Your pet can be in wonderful health and have many happy, healthy years ahead of them, even after they are medically considered geriatric. This categorization is primarily helpful when it comes to making adjustments to your dog’s care.

Screen For Health Problems

Just like people, dogs are more likely to develop health problems as they age. Some of the ailments that you will want to look out for are cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. The best way to combat these problems in elderly pets is to regularly take them to the veterinarian and pay close attention to any changes in their behavior as they may be signs that your pet isn’t feeling well. Once your dog is considered geriatric, it is advised to bring them in for a wellness checkup twice a year.

Adjust Their Diet

As your dog ages, you will need to adjust their diet. According to AMVA, “Geriatric pets often need foods that are more readily digested, and have different calorie levels and ingredients, and anti-aging nutrients.” You will also want to carefully monitor your dog’s weight as older dogs will often gain weight as they become less active which can cause potential health risks such as diabetes and put stress on their joints.

Changes To Their Environment

As your pet ages, you may need to make adjustments to their living environment. If your dog begins to develop arthritis or other issues related to their mobility, you may want to move their bed, food, and toys all to the same level of your home so they are not forced to climb stairs. If you allow your pets on furniture, you may want to provide them with a stool or a step so they can climb up instead of jumping from the floor. If your pet develops vision or even memory problems, it can be helpful to avoid or limit major changes to your home’s layout so they don’t get “lost.”

Talk To Your Veterinarian

The best way to help your dog enjoy their golden years is to talk with your veterinarian about their health. Your veterinarian can help you come up with an individualized care plan for your dog and can help you come up with a schedule for regular checkups based on your dog’s existing health. To set up an appointment and get more information, you can contact the Bregman Veterinary Group today to get started!