The Coronavirus And Your Dog

Hello to my Pack!

In this very difficult time of fear, stress, and social isolation because of the coronavirus, I wanted to reach out and share some very important information about the coronavirus and your dog(s).

First of all, to put your mind at ease, there is currently NO EVIDENCE that dogs can spread the disease or that the COVID-19 can make your dog sick.

You may have heard that traces of the coronavirus was found in a Pomeranian dog in Hong Kong recently. The dog was living with a COVID-19 infected and actively sick human when the dog was tested. It tested “weak” for the coronavirus. However the dog is NOT showing any signs of the disease or active symptoms of sickness. Many vets believe that the COVID-19 was picked up by the dog from licking an infected surface in the home, or by inhaling a contaminated part of the home environment with it’s nose.

But since the dog has shown no signs of illness, the World Organization for Animal Health believes there is no reason to believe or fear that this human virus can cause disease in dogs. The current spread of the COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission – there is NO EVIDENCE that dogs can spread this virus. And with regard to the Pomeranian in Hong Kong, it is clear that the dog was infected by the human and NOT the other way around.

If you are showing symptoms or signs of the COVID-19 it is a good idea to not interact with your dog. If possible, have others care for your dog at this time. If that is not an option, wash your hands vigorously before touching, playing with, or feeding your dog. Don’t let your dog lick you. Refrain from cuddling with your dog and even petting your dog at this time because you could get the virus on the dog’s fur and inadvertently spread the virus that way. Do not hand feed your dog treats, or share your table scraps. Put the dog’s food in it’s bowl directly from the bag, and be sure the dog has fresh, clean water at all times. It is also a good idea to wear a mask around your dog to be safe. And be sure to cough or sneeze into your arm/elbow – not anywhere near your dog!

If you are healthy, here are some tips to help keep you and your dog virus-free:

Avoid letting your dog lick you in the face.
Do not share your table scraps with your dog.
Disinfect and clean your dog’s toys, food and water bowls with a pet-safe cleaner.
Be sure to include your dog’s needs in your family’s preparedness plan. (For example, have extra dog food and water, and any medications you dog may be taking.)
Wipe your dog’s paws with paw wipes after walks outside.
Practice good hygiene around your pets and wash your hands before handling your dog or giving your dog a bone, treats or toys.
Exercise – especially outdoors, is good for both you and your dog. It boosts your immune system and keeps you both from going stir crazy!
Laughter and play are good for the soul.
Remember that your dog can feel your stress, so take care of yourself: focus on positive things, what you are grateful for, and all of your blessings.
Wash your hands often while singing one of the following:

How Much is that Doggy in the Window
Who Let the Dogs Out
Puppy Love

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE CORONAVIRUS FROM

THE WORLD ORGANIZATION FOR ANIMAL HEALTH GO TO:

https://www.oie.int/en/scientific-expertise/specific-information-and- recommendations/questions-and-answers-on-2019novel-coronavirus/

None of us need the added stress of our dogs behaving badly at this already challenging time. So for a limited time I will be offering a Coronavirus special discount. For more information go to www.LifeCoachingForDogs or call (310) 467-2334 and ask about the special COVID-19 discount.

Wishing you, your family and your furry family members

good health and much love. xo Mara