When a pet owner tests positive for COVID-19, several options exist for managing the care of their pets. The primary concern is ensuring the well-being of both the owner and the animal. Whether pets can quarantine with their owners depends largely on the specific regulations of the isolation facility. Alternative solutions such as pet isolation centers and in-home care are often available.
Options for Pets When Owners Test Positive
When owners are diagnosed with COVID-19, it is crucial to make informed and responsible decisions for their pets. Depending on the situation, several possibilities are available to ensure your pet's well-being during this challenging period. It is essential to consider all options carefully.
1. Quarantining with the Owner
Some isolation hotels may allow pets to stay with their owners, but this needs to be pre-arranged and approved. You will need to coordinate with the hotel to understand their specific policies and requirements for pet accommodations. However, if the owner requires transfer to a designated medical institution due to being a confirmed, suspected, or asymptomatic case, this option is no longer viable for obvious infection control reasons.
2. Pet Isolation Centers
Pets of COVID-19 positive owners are considered at risk of infection. Many areas have established specialized pet isolation centers to care for and monitor these pets during their owners' isolation period. These centers are staffed by professionals who can attend to the specific needs of each animal. Contact your local authorities or public health departments for information regarding these resources within your city or region.
3. In-Home Pet Care
Many communities offer volunteer services to care for pets whose owners are in isolation. This involves volunteers who visit the home to provide food, water, and companionship for pets left in place. You can often seek help through local community groups, social media platforms, or by contacting friends and family. This option is particularly helpful in places where pet isolation centers are not available. This option relies on finding trustworthy individuals to enter your home during your isolation period.
Can Pets Contract COVID-19?
Early in the pandemic, extensive research by experts at the Harbin Veterinary Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences focused on whether pets could contract COVID-19 and which species were more vulnerable. The studies found that pets can indeed be infected by the COVID-19 virus. Results show dogs, pigs, chickens, and ducks are less susceptible to the virus, while cats and ferrets have a higher chance of infection. Pet owners should take necessary precautions to protect their animal companions.