What should I know about COVID-19 and my pets?

5/6/2020: Update from CDC 
Risk of animals spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to people

Some coronaviruses that infect animals can sometimes be spread to humans and then spread between people, but this is rare. This is what happened with the virus that caused the current outbreak of COVID-19. However, we do not know the exact source of this virus. Public health officials and partners are working hard to identify the source of COVID-19. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person to person.

The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, and talking. Recent studies show that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low.

Risk of people spreading the virus that causes COVID-19 to animals
We are still learning about this virus, but we know it is primarily spreading from person-to-person and it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.

The first case external icon in the United States of an animal testing positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 was a tiger with respiratory illness at a zoo in New York City. Samples from this tiger were collected and tested after several lions and tigers at the zoo showed signs of respiratory illness. Public health officials believe these large cats became sick after being exposed to a zoo employee who was infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. This investigation is ongoing.

CDC is working with human and animal health partners to monitor this situation and will continue to provide updates as information becomes available. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.

Answers from Dr. Kristi Peterson - Medical Director Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center. 

Should my pets be "social distancing"?
While transmission from an animal to a human is thought to be very unlikely, it's a good rule of thumb to keep your pets away from other people and animals outside of your household. It's possible that pets could harbor viral particles on their fur for a short period of time if exposed to the virus.

If I contract COVID-19, can I give it to my pet?
At this time, it is thought that the risk of a pet contracting COVID-19 and developing clinical signs of illness is very low. There has only been 1 case report of a domestic cat in Belgium developing signs of illness after exposure. However, given that there is still on-going research on this subject, it is recommended to limit your contact with your pets if you have been diagnosed. This includes avoiding petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food.

If I or someone in my home contract COVID-19, can my pet still go to the vet if necessary?
Ideally, your animals should be kept away from other people and animals. If your pet has an emergency and must be seen by a veterinarian, please notify them of your status prior to your appointment.

Should my dog be vaccinated against canine Coronavirus?
NO. Canine coronavirus is a virus that can affect the intestinal tract in dogs. This is not currently considered a core vaccine in dogs due to the limited efficacy of the vaccine and the mild nature of the disease. Vaccinating a dog with canine coronavirus vaccine would not provide any protection against COVID-19.