Experts are recommending people practice social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19. But what about pets?
As far as scientists know right now, pets don’t get sick from the form of coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
But they can carry the virus on their fur or collars, so if you’re in isolation or quarantine, be careful about letting others interact with your cat or dog, said Olivia Rudolphi, veterinarian and president of the Illinois State Veterinary Medicine Association.
She said owners should limit canine play dates or visits to dog parks and avoid petting other people’s pets. Rudolphi also recommended disinfecting leashes, collars and beds your pet has used after it’s been outside.
Finally, Rudolphi reminded people not to use Lysol or other disinfectants on their pets — if you’re worried about your pet carrying coronavirus, a bath with regular pet shampoo will work just fine.
