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1. As a pet owner, what should I do to keep myself and my pet safe from COVID-19?

Until we learn more about how this virus affects animals, treat pets as you would other human family members to protect them from a possible infection:

• Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
• Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
• Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
• Do not gather in groups and avoid crowded locations.
• Wash hands with soap and water if you do handle animals or their food, supplies or waste.

Should you be concerned that your pet was exposed to COVID-19 or if you have any concerns about your pet’s health, please consult your veterinarian.

2. Can I get COVID-19 from my pet or another animal?

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. A small number of pets have been reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after contact with people with COVID-19. Although certain germs can be carried on fur and hair, there is no evidence that viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets.

However, since animals can spread other diseases to people, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals — such as washing your hands if you do handle animals or their food, supplies or waste. St. Charles County Animal Control offers additional suggestions for encounters with loose animals.

3. Can mosquitoes, houseflies or ticks spread COVID-19?

At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 - or other similar coronaviruses that have been studied closely - is spread by mosquitoes, houseflies, ticks or other insects. The primary way that this virus spreads is through person-to-person contact.

Please note: these creatures are capable of spreading other serious diseases to people and their pets. Take precautions when going outdoors to wear insect repellent, avoid common insect habitats and check for insects when returning home.

4. What should I do to care for my pet, if I'm exposed to COVID-19?

If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pet, just like you would with people. Until we know more about this virus, people sick with COVID-19 should avoid contact with pets and other animals.

• When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.
• Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.
• If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.

If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick, speak with your veterinarian and let them know you have been sick with COVID-19. Your veterinarian can evaluate your pet and determine the next steps for your pet’s treatment and care.

5. Can pets test positive for COVID-19?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health organizations are investigating how COVID-19 can affect animals, but there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus. A small number of pets—cats and dogs—have been confirmed to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with a person with COVID-19, but those infected pets all had mild disease and could be taken care of at home.

Should you be concerned that your pet was exposed to COVID-19, please consult your veterinarian for information regarding care.

6. Can wild animals spread COVID-19 to me or my pet?

Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 is circulating in free-living wildlife in the United States or that wildlife might be a source of infection for people. However, because animals can carry other diseases, even without looking sick, it is always important to enjoy wildlife from a distance. Take steps to prevent getting sick from wildlife in the United States:

• Keep your family, including pets, a safe distance away from wildlife.
• Do not feed wildlife or touch wildlife droppings.
• Always wash your hands and supervise children washing their hands after working or playing outside.
• Leave orphaned animals alone. Often, the parents are close by and will return for their young.
• Do not approach or touch a sick or dead animal.

7. Can I walk my dog during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Walking a dog is important for both animal and human health and well-being. Follow these prevention recommendations:

• Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals. If you’re passing along a trail or sidewalk, leave space between you and others.
• Do not gather in groups and stay out of crowded places.
• To help maintain social distancing, do not let other people pet your dog when you are out for a walk.
• Wash hands with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand sanitizer, after touching animals, waste or supplies.

8. Is it safe to foster or adopt a pet during COVID-19?

Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. There is no reason to think that any animals, including shelter pets, play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19.

If you are interest in becoming a foster parent or adopting from the St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center, please call 636-949-7387 to schedule an appointment.

9. My question was not listed among these FAQs. Where can I go for additional information?

The CDC is an excellent resource for up-to-date information on COVID-19. Here are FAQs answered on their website. The American Veterinary Medical Association website also provides assistance regarding animal care.

For additional questions, please call the St. Charles County Public Health COVID-19 Information Hotline at 636-949-1899.