Federal officials revealed that two pet cats in New York had confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday — the same day that New York City’s Bronx Zoo confirmed that a total of eight animals had tested positive for the virus.
Now, public health officials have released new guidelines on how to keep your pet — and yourself — safe from the coronavirus.
In a media statement, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledged that public health officials are aware that a small number of pets have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. However, the pets had mostly come into contact with people who had COVID-19, the CDC says. Now, the federal agency has updated guidance to try to protect people and their pets. Here’s what you need to know, plus why it might impact your next dog walk.
What are the new guidelines?
The CDC specifically recommends that pet owners do the following:
- Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside your house.
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least six feet from other people and animals.
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
- Continue reading here
